Keep your guard up: get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is urging community members to book a flu and COVID-19 vaccination with their GP or pharmacist as soon as possible.  

Vaccination protects both those being vaccinated and the wider community, especially people at risk of severe illness or complications from the flu and COVID-19.  

MPHN Clinical Programs and Emergency Response Manager Peta Anderson said vaccination remains the best method of defence against severe illness, particularly with COVID-19 still circulating in the Murrumbidgee.  

‘It's crucial that people keep their guard up and ensure they have the best chance of a healthy winter by getting vaccinated,’ Ms Anderson said.  

‘Our region's GPs and pharmacists are ready to help protect you and your family this winter; all you need to do is make an appointment.’  

Vaccination helps reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and death from influenza and COVID-19. Groups most at risk of influenza include children aged between six months and five years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with underlying medical conditions, those aged over 65 years, and pregnant women.  

People can also receive a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the flu vaccine. Anyone over 18 years old can get a new COVID booster.  

‘Also practicing healthy habits like regular hand washing and sanitising, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if you’re feeling unwell will contribute to reducing the spread of illness,’ Ms Anderson said.  

‘Being proactive can make a difference in keeping Murrumbidgee residents safe and healthy and out of our hospitals this winter.’  

For more information, visit healthdirect.gov.au/flu-vaccine-faqs