April 29, 2023
South Burnett residents are being urged to protect themselves against the winter influenza season by organising to get a flu vaccination now.
Queensland Health statistics show that from January 1 to April 16 this year, there have been 224 laboratory-confirmed cases of flu in the Darling Downs Health region.
Darling Downs Health Director of Public Health and Community Medicine Dr Liam Flynn said this was up on previous years, which is why it was important to get a flu vaccination.
“Now is a great time to protect yourself and your loved ones, so you’re immunised before the flu season arrives,” Dr Flynn said.
“Flu season in Queensland typically peaks in August, so I’d encourage all members of our community to visit their GP or pharmacist and get the influenza jab soon.”
Influenza is a very contagious viral infection that can affect the upper airways and lungs.
Darling Downs Health says that as well as getting vaccinated, there are also some simple steps that can be taken to help fight the flu.
These include washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying at home when sick.
Some members of the community are more at risk from influenza and its complications so are eligible to receive the vaccination for free under the National Immunisation Program.
These include people aged 65 years and over, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over six months of age, children aged from six months to five years, and people with certain medical conditions.
- Related article: Residents Urged To Get Flu Shots
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health will be bringing the annual “Tackle Flu Before It Tackles You” flu vaccination clinic to Cherbourg, Murgon and Kingaroy next week:
- Tuesday, May 2 – Cherbourg Hospital, 10:00am-4:00pm
- Wednesday, May 3 – Barambah Youth Hub, Murgon, noon-6:00pm
- Thursday, May 4 – Uniting Church Hall, 9:00am-3:00pm
