The Department of Health has said that flu vaccinations will be free for all Western Australians aged over six months during June.
In a statement, the Department said immunisation remained the best defence against influenza.
“WA is on track to achieve a significant vaccination coverage this year with more than 566,946 Western Australians being vaccinated against the flu so far — 338,401 of those people being vaccinated during Free Jab May,” the Department said.
“Last year, under the Free Jab June and July program, 362,000 jabs were administered, with more than one million Western Australians being vaccinated in total.”
It said influenza spread quickly from person to person. Symptoms could include fever, chills, aches, runny nose, coughing and an upset stomach.
“So far this year, 538 people have been hospitalised with the flu, with children aged zero to nine years making up 34 per cent of hospitalisations,” the Department said.
“Free vaccinations are available at GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and participating community pharmacies throughout June.”
Minister for Health, Amber-Jade Sanderson said the peak period for influenza transmission was typically from June to September — “and now is also the time to make sure your COVID-19 vaccinations are up to date”.
“A double infection could be more serious than having either influenza or COVID alone,” Ms Sanderson said.
More information about influenza can be accessed at HealthyWA by this PS News link.
