Young people are being urged to get their flu shot as they wait for the COVID-19 vaccine.
In a press release dated 14th April 2021, The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recommended everyone over the age of six months get their annual influenza vaccination.
As per their advice, the best time to get the vaccine is before the start of the flu season, which usually peaks from June to September.
Older and more vulnerable people are first in line to receive the COVID-19 vaccination over the next few months. Younger and healthier people, other than those eligible in earlier phases, will not be receiving COVID-19 vaccinations until later in the year.
RACGP President, Dr Karen Price, said “We are dealing with the twin threats of influenza and COVID-19, for which two national vaccination programs will be rolling out at the same time – it’s a lot for our health system to manage, and it’s a lot for patients.
“That’s why we are urging patients in later phases for the COVID-19 vaccine to get their flu shot as soon as it is available, and then get their COVID-19 vaccine when they can.
“This will help to minimise strain on the health system and make the experience easier for patients.
“If you’re young and healthy you might think you should be standing back and waiting for the most vulnerable patients to get their flu shots first.
“In fact, we want these patients to do the opposite.
“Patients who are more vulnerable, including those who are older, should prioritise getting their COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is offered to them.”
Information source: racgp.org.au
Image source: Photo by Brittany Colette on Unsplash
