19 Apr 2020
Flu Vaccine
Flu Shot
Winter is coming….so is the flu. The vaccine prepares and boosts your immune system to help fight the flu but not the coronavirus if you are exposed to it. This will reduce your risk of influenza which kills hundreds of people.
Department of Health has recommended you get vaccinated prior to the peak of the flu season, which starts from mid-April to August. The most effective way to protect yourself and your family is book in for an appointment with your GP for the flu shot.
To book in for flu shot please call us on (02) 9981 3111 or book online : Click here for HotDoc Online
Why is the flu vaccine free for some people?
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule has provided free flu for some groups of people who are considered at increased risk of complications :
- Pregnant Woman
- Chronic Disease (eg Asthma)
- Over 6 months of age
- 65 years and older
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander over 6 months of age.
Signs and symptoms include:
- fever and chills
- headache and muscle aches
- feeling tired and weak
- sneezing, and stuffy or runny nose
- sore throat and cough
This can go on for some weeks. Children may also have abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
If your symptoms get worse, see a doctor. You should seek help straight away if you feel chest pain, short of breath, dizzy or confused, or you are vomiting a lot. During this time it is important to take care of yourself by resting, keeping warm, drink lots of fluids and eat light non oily food when hungry.
References:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/influenza-a-flu
https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/national-immunisation-program
The Flu Vaccine, the_gp_mum9981
