ACT Division of General Practice (ACTDGP) is urging Canberrans to get immunised against the next bout of flu that's coming our way this year.
In the lead-up to National Flu Day (15 March 2011), ACTDGP President Dr Rashmi Sharma says in order to protect our community against this year's flu virus we need as many people as possible to get immunised.
"This disease is debilitating and causes pain, fever and headaches. Every year these symptoms confine some people to bed and even hospital, causing lost workplace productivity. The impact of flu cannot be underestimated given that complications from influenza kill more than 2,500 Australians each year - that's more than the average annual national road toll of 1,500 people," said Dr Sharma.
Dr Sharma also dispelled the myth that "influenza vaccine gives you the flu" as it is not a 'live' vaccine.
"Being fit and healthy does not protect you from a serious bout of influenza. We¡¦re also reminding Canberrans who received a flu vaccine last year to be boosted again this year to maintain their immunity, as the vaccine provides protection for only about a year," said Dr Sharma.
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends influenza vaccination for any person over six months of age who wish to reduce their likelihood of becoming ill with flu.
Eligibility for the free seasonal influenza vaccine under the National Influenza Vaccination Program includes:
- All adults aged 65 years and over
- All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over 15 years of age
- People over six months of age with chronic illnesses
- Pregnant women.
"If you are a family carer, health care worker or have close contact with people who are at a higher risk it is really important for you to be immunised as well," Dr Sharma said.
"The Northern Hemisphere flu season is still in full swing causing high levels of infections and complications leading to hospitalisations and even deaths. The Australian flu season is only a matter of weeks away and it is time to think about protecting yourself and others."
Dr Sharma encourages all Canberrans to visit their GP and receive their influenza vaccine before winter begins.
For more information please phone Roz Lemon on 0417 179 314 or email media@actdgp.asn.au.