By DANE LILLINGSTONE
NEW statistics show the number of flu cases in Australia is up by over 50 per cent on the same time last year.
Minister for Health Sussan Ley said vaccination was the most effective way to protect against the flu, which contributed to over 3000 deaths annually.
“Last year’s flu season was one of the worst on record, and we have already seen a 50 per cent increase or almost 5000 additional cases across Australia so far this year,” Ms Ley said.
“The more people who are vaccinated, the less chance the illness spreads throughout the rest of the community. This is particularly true for those Australians who are ill, vulnerable, pregnant or elderly.
“The message is simple – get your flu shot before the flu gets you this winter,” she said.
Ms Ley reported that 4.5 million doses of flu vaccination had been bought this year under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). That number is 200,000 more than last year.
“The peak period for the flu season is regularly between August and September and with most people usually taking up to three weeks to develop immunity following their flu shot now is the time to go get your flu jab,” Ms Ley said.
“The vaccine not only reduces the chance of getting the flu but it also minimises the severity, complications and hospitalisations if you do.”
There is a reason for this spike in numbers. They are being attributed to a rare double strain change in the vaccine.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Baggoley said that the vaccination was a requirement every year regardless of whether you’ve had it previously.
“Each year the vaccine contains three virus strains. The 2015 vaccine contains new virus strains which are different to last year’s to ensure Australians were protected against the most likely strains,” Prof Baggoley said.
“Flu is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person, through the air, and on the hands.”
The flu vaccine is free to Australians over 65, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months to five years and 15 and over, pregnant women and anyone aged over six months with certain chronic conditions.
Speak to your local GP for more information about eligibility for the free vaccine.
