With World Immunization Day approaching April 24-30th, Logan doctors are taking the opportunity to discuss the annual flu vaccination with their patients.
“With the current focus on the importance of COVID boosters, we also need to remind patients not to neglect their annual flu vaccine,” Dr Fabrina Hossain, general practitioner at Meadowbrook Medical Centre, said.
“Flu vaccines remain the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications; and are recommended for most people aged six months and over.”
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has advised influenza vaccines can be administered at the same time as the Covid-19 vaccine.
Vaccinating for influenza from April provides protection before the peak season takes place and is generally expected to last for the whole season, with the best protection occurring within the first three to four months following vaccination, Dr Hossain said.
Influenza vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program for the following groups due to their increased risk of complications from influenza:
- all children from 6 months to less than 5 years of age
- all adults aged 65 years and older
- pregnant women
- all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- individuals aged 6 months and older with medical conditions which increase the risk of influenza disease complications (for a full list go to ATAGI advice on seasonal influenza vaccines 2022).
While the annual vaccine is key in preventing illness, Dr Hossain says the hygiene practices we have been encouraged to use throughout the pandemic can also reduce the spread of flu: washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if we are unwell.
“As with any vaccine, we encourage the community to discuss their personal circumstances with a trusted GP, who can answer any questions or concerns they may have.”
