Free flu jab extension welcomed
Queenslanders have another fortnight to get a free flu jab.
The announcement that free flu jabs will be available for a further two weeks for all Queenslanders is a win for the state’s health, AMA Queensland President Dr Maria Boulton said.
“AMA Queensland supported the state government’s decision to make influenza vaccines available for free to the entire community earlier this month, and we worked with the government to get this program running,” Dr Boulton said.
“Almost 650,000 people have taken advantage of the free flu vaccine.
“However, our vaccination rate of 35 per cent – as of 19 June - is still one of the lowest in the nation and we need to encourage as many people as possible to get their flu shot.
“As of 19 June, we had already had 25,588 confirmed cases of flu in Queensland. During the entire flu season last year, we had fewer than 600 cases across Australia.
“It is clear that we are in for a heavy and early flu season this year, with the double whammy of combined flu and COVID cases.
“We asked Queensland Health last week to consider extending the free flu vaccine program, and we are pleased that the Premier has announced the extension to 17 July.
“This is a good outcome for Queenslanders and we urge everyone who has not yet had their flu jab to book online with their GP.”