Protect yourself ahead of this year’s flu season

16 April 2010

With Australia’s flu season commencing in May, Jenny Macklin MP is urging elderly local residents aged 65 and over, as well as pregnant women and those with pre-existing medical conditions to have their annual free influenza shot ahead of the onset of flu season.

Autumn is considered the best time of year to be vaccinated before flu outbreaks become more common during the colder months.

This also allows the vaccine time to take effect.

Eligible local residents are urged to take advantage of the Federal Government's National Immunisation Program.

As part of the program, free Flu vaccinations are provided to those aged 65 and over, pregnant women and people with underlying medical conditions including cardiac disease, respiratory conditions, chronic illness and impaired immunity.

This year's seasonal influenza vaccine also includes the H1N1 (Swine Flu) vaccine.

Free flu vaccinations can be arranged through your local GP or by attending a local Council immunisation session.

Ms Macklin reminded the local community that different strains of the flu hit every flu season, so vaccinations are needed every year to protect against the latest forms of the virus.

"The Flu virus comes in a variety of strains every year and it's important that local residents understand that they need to receive their flu shot every year,"

"The Flu can be very serious for any age group but older people can be more susceptible to influenza complications like pneumonia,"

"The Flu can also complicate existing illnesses such as diabetes, heart conditions and severe asthma." Ms Macklin said.

Banyule and Nillumbik Shire Councils hold immunisation sessions monthly.

Further information is also available on the Fight Flu web site developed by the National Institute of Clinical Studies at www.fightflu.gov.au or by calling the Immunisation Program Infoline on 1300 882 008.

Local Council Immunisation Services Information

Banyule Immunisation Services: 9490 4222
Nillumbik Immunisation inquiries: 9430 9138 or 9430 9124.

Flu Facts:

Influenza is caused by a virus and is not the same as a cold. It can cause serious and debilitating complications such as pneumonia, especially in the elderly and others in the 'at risk' group.
Influenza is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through coughing or sneezing.
The influenza season usually commences in late-May and continues until September.
Influenza causes 2,500 deaths, 80,000 GP visits and 15,000 hospitalisations in Australia each year amongst at risk groups.
1.2 million Australians aged under 65 are in the 'at risk' group.
People with a chronic disease have a 40 times increased risk of death from influenza. A combination of heart and lung disease increases this risk 800 times.
Only 42 per cent of the 'at risk' group under 65 years of age are being vaccinated annually.
Only 20-50 per cent of health care workers, who are at a greater risk of contracting and spreading influenza, are being vaccinated annually.
15 per cent of influenza related deaths and 60 per cent of hospitalisations are in the under 65 'at risk' group.
10 per cent of all workplace absenteeism associated with illness is due to influenza.
Annual vaccination is the single most effective measure to prevent influenza.

Media contact:

Antony Kenney 0411 311 131

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