Health

Only 45% of Australians aged 18 to 64 years have had their flu vaccine so far

Influenza season is set to peak one month from now. Health experts are urging people to get their jab sooner rather than later. 

According to flutracking.net, only 45% of Australians aged 18 to 64 years have had their flu vaccine so far this year. 71% of that age bracket had been vaccinated at the same point last year. Meanwhile, 66% of Australians 65 and older have had their flu vaccine compared with almost 90% at the same time last year.

In a statement released on 20th May 2021, Health Minister Greg Hunt announced that influenza vaccines are now available through community pharmacies and GP clinics.

He said “Whilst there have been record low cases of flu this year in Australia the timing, severity and length of the flu season varies year to year and it is not yet clear how hard influenza will hit Australians this year.

“Both flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines protect against different viruses, both of which are potentially serious. Everyone aged over six months should receive a flu jab, and all adults should also receive their COVID-19 vaccine when it is scheduled.

“If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to call your GP, community pharmacy or other vaccination provider and organise your flu shot”.

Photo by Edward Jenner from Pexels

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