By Alesha Capone
Wyndham residents are being urged to get a flu vaccination this season, to help lessen the spread of the illness.
NPS MedicineWise, a national not-for-profit organisation which runs programs funded by the Department of Health, has issued the advice.
NPS pharmacist Nerida Packham said that April to June was usually a good time to get a flu shot.
Ms Packham said that influenza was a major cause of illness in Australia and people died of the flu every year.
“Last year’s flu vaccine will not give protection this year,” she said.
“The vaccine needs to be taken every year as every year there are new strains of the virus. “
Ms Packham said that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was particularly important for people to be vaccinated for the flu before winter sets in.
“Flu vaccination will not prevent you from getting infected with COVID-19, but it will help you avoid influenza and its complications,” she said.
“Symptoms may be more severe if you are infected with both influenza and COVID-19 at the same time.
“As many practices are only providing telehealth consultations, check with your local practice about arrangements to get the flu vaccine.
“Some community pharmacies are also giving flu vaccines.”
