NSW residents are being urged to book in for a flu vaccine without delay as winter is just a week away and hospitals are already seeing a surge in influenza cases.
Minister for Health, Brad Hazzard has called on everyone to have a vaccination, even if only to help the State’s hospitals cope.
“NSW hospitals are facing a triple threat with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, a surge in flu cases and staff furloughing due to illness,” Mr Hazzard said.
“NSW Health has been warning us for months of the likelihood of a horror flu season, so please help yourselves and our health staff and get a flu shot,” he said.
“After two years of COVID, our hospitals do not need the added challenge of avoidable influenza when flu shots are readily available at GPs and pharmacies.”
The State’s Chief Paediatrician, Dr Matt O’Meara said there was a particular concern for children aged six months to five years old.
“We are encouraging parents to be alert this flu season as young children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of flu,” Dr O’Meara said.
“At least 10 per cent of children admitted to hospital with flu will be so sick that they need intensive care,” he said.
“Parents can reduce the risk of that happening, just by getting their child vaccinated.”
The secretary of NSW Health, Susan Pearce said emergency departments across NSW were currently under “significant pressure” due to high numbers of COVID-19 cases and now a surge in flu cases.
“Our wonderful frontline healthcare workers are here to help give you the right care if you need it,” Ms Pearce said.
“If you are seriously injured, seriously unwell or have a life-threatening medical emergency, you should call triple zero or attend an emergency department without delay,” she said.
“We are urging the community to support us during this challenging period by making sure those who need emergency medical care can receive it by saving ambulances and emergency departments for saving lives.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant urged the community to continue to do the little things that make big differences when it comes to curbing the spread of viruses in winter.
