Winter is on its way and now is the time to prepare for flu season.
Your immunity is strongest and most effective for 3 to 4 months after you are vaccinated. Flu season in Australia usually runs from June to September, peaking in August, so it is important to get your flu shot in April or May
Vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu, especially for older people and those with underlying medical conditions such as:
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- cardiac disease, including cyanotic congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure
- chronic respiratory conditions, including suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and severe asthma (for which frequent medical consultations, or the use of multiple medications is required), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis and chronic emphysema.
- chronic neurological conditions, including hereditary and degenerative central nervous system (CNS) disease (including multiple sclerosis), neuromuscular disorders, spinal cord injuries and seizure disorders
- immunocompromising conditions, including immunocompromised due to disease or treatment (e.g. malignancy, transplantation and/or chronic steroid use), asplenia or splenic dysfunction and HIV infection
- diabetes and other metabolic disorders, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and chronic metabolic disorders
- chronic renal failure
- haemoglobinopathies
It is safe to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time.
Those over 65 years of age are eligible for free influenza vaccine. Speak with your health professional today!
