AMA urging Australians to get their flu vaccination now
AMA is urging all Australians to get their seasonal flu vaccination now, with general practices across the country having recently received stock ahead of the upcoming flu season.
“Winter is coming, and influenza remains a very serious illness, particularly for the vulnerable members of our community,” AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said.
“Thousands of Australians are admitted to hospitals with influenza complications each year.
“Last year we saw record flu vaccinations, which was fantastic. We need to do the same again this year.”
Dr Khorshid emphasised that that while last year influenza case numbers were down compared to previous years due to COVID-19 social distancing, that the community must not become complacent now life is returning to normal.
“Our public hospitals are at capacity and patients are waiting longer in emergency departments, getting the flu vaccination is just as important as ever,” Dr Khorshid said.
“Getting the flu shot now will better protect you from the serious prospect of having both COVID-19 and influenza at the same time. It is the only safe, proven, and tested way of not becoming an influenza statistic.
“Your family GP is best placed to advise you on the different formulations and to help you plan your flu shot around your COVID-19 vaccine.”
Current guidelines stipulate a 14-day gap between a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccination and GPs can help patients understand which one they should get first.
