March 28, 2014
The Darling Downs Public Health Unit hopes to vaccinate 500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander people during this year’s Tackle Flu Before It Tackles You campaign.
The campaign was launched on March 25 and will see clinicians visit 10 locations across the
Darling Downs, South West and South Burnett to conduct free influenza vaccination clinics for
Indigenous people aged over 15 years.
The travelling clinic will visit Cherbourg on Monday, April 7, from 10:00am to 2:00pm.
Clinicians will be stationed near the town’s post office to administer the vaccinations.
“The flu is a highly contagious and potentially serious disease that can be spread through
coughing and sneezing,” Dr Penny Hutchinson, from the Darling Downs Public Health Unit, said.
“Indigenous people over the age of 15 are deemed at risk of contracting the flu, along with all
people over the age of 65 years, pregnant women and those with a chronic illness.
“Many people believe they are too healthy to get the flu, but anyone can get it and make their
friends and family sick.
“That’s why it’s important for all people to get vaccinated.”
Dr Hutchinson said early indicators predicted a particularly severe flu season in 2014.
“Already this year in Queensland we have seen hospitalisations from the flu,” she said.
Bookings are not required for the Tackle Flu vaccination clinic in Cherbourg. People who receive the flu vaccination will also receive a free collared shirt featuring indigenous designs plus the chance to win an NRL jersey of their choice.
