Winter is coming!
This inevitable change sees the commencement of winter sports, less daylight during the day and the crackle of fireplaces in the evening.
Alas, with this cooler weather also comes the beginning of the cold and flu season.
I am pleased to say that I have booked into have my annual flu vaccination, and I would encourage you to get yours.
A flu vaccination is recommended for all Queenslanders aged six months and over, and in 2024, you can receive your vaccination for free.
It is also recommended that groups of high-risk individuals get vaccinated.
These high-risk groups include:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
- children aged six months to under five years
- people aged six months and over who have medical conditions
- pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- people who are over the age of 65 years
Vaccinating this month especially, provides protection before the peak of the flu season, over the winter months.
Whilst protection is generally expected to last the flu season, Queensland Health have advised that the best protection against influenza does occur within the first three to four months following your flu vaccination being administered.
Queensland Health have also said that vaccinations are not immediately effective, and it generally does takes 10-14 days to be fully protected.
You can find out more general information on flu vaccinations by visiting your doctor, or by jumping online and visiting the Queensland Health Website.
I’ve listed some links below which you could find handy if you’re seeking more information.
Queensland Health has further information on the strains of influenza being targeted through vaccinations, timing of vaccinations and eligibility, which can be found at https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/diseases-infection/immunisation/service-providers/influenza
The Federal Government’s Department of Health has Information about influenza vaccines, who it is recommended for, how and where to get vaccinated.
They also have a downloadable influenza vaccination factsheet.
To find out more, visit, https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/immunisation/immunisation-services/influenza-flu-immunisation-service
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the frontline workers in the hospitals, doctors surgeries and pharmacies that assist with those who are more vulnerable.
