Everyone is encouraged to get a flu shot, but especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents (Photo: Wikimedia)

August 16, 2017

Queensland Health has warned that this year’s flu season has hit with a vengeance, with record numbers of cases being reported.

Dr Christopher Coulter,  from the Infectious Diseases Communicable Diseases Branch, said the latest figures were the best reminder yet to get a flu vaccination.

“For those who haven’t had a flu vaccination this year, it’s not too late and they should make booking an appointment a priority,” Dr Coulter said.

“This year’s vaccine protects against two ‘A’ and two ‘B’ strains of flu which have been the most prevalent around the world this year.

“For some people in high-risk categories, influenza can be deadly so it’s crucial we all play our part to help stop it spreading and reduce its effects on the community.”

* * *

The ‘Statewide Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report’, available online, compares weekly flu data back to 2012.

This week’s figure is the highest weekly reported during that period.

So far this year, there have been 19,216 flu notifications – about 76 per cent (14,688) were Type A and the remaining 24 per cent (4528) were Type B.

So far this year, there have also been 2145 public hospital admissions across Queensland for the flu, and 222 of those required intensive care.

* * *

Dr Coulter urged residents to practise good hygiene.

Stay home when you’re sick, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing and wash your hands regularly and thoroughly.

Combined with vaccination, these simply steps can reduce the likelihood of spreading the flu and combat the rise in flu notifications.

* * *

Queenslanders eligible for the government-funded influenza vaccine can access it from their doctor or immunisation provider.

Those eligible for the funded vaccine are:

  • Pregnant women during any stage of pregnancy
  • People aged 65 years of age or older
  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children aged six months to five years
  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people 15 years of age or older
  • People six months of age or older who have certain medical conditions which increase the risk of influenza disease complications.

All other Queenslanders can obtain the influenza vaccination from their doctor, immunisation provider or some community pharmacies.


 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.