NSW Health is urging everyone to make sure they and their loved ones are immunised to protect against ‘the other’ severe flu this year, particularly those in higher-risk groups.
Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, Richard Broome said people shouldn’t be deterred from getting the annual flu vaccination because cases to date were significantly lower in NSW than in previous years, most likely due to public health measures taken to limit COVID-19 transmission.
“NSW could still experience an atypical flu season – one that begins later in the year or in the warmer months,” Dr Broome said.
“Getting a flu shot is the best protection against this in the coming months,” he said.
“It’s also important to remember that when booking your vaccines that you make sure to space your influenza vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines at least 14 days apart.”
Dr Broome said the State would distribute more than three million doses of the flu vaccine to GPs; Aboriginal Medical Services; aged care facilities; community health centres; and public hospitals.
“People who are not eligible for a free flu vaccine can get it from their GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or pharmacist for a fee,” he said.
“NSW Health is also reminding GPs of the importance of the flu vaccine and to ensure they are contacting their patients,” he said.
He encouraged children under five, pregnant women, Aboriginal people, people over 65, and anyone with medical risk conditions to get their free flu shot, available under the National Immunisation Program.
