Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk together with the Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman have announced that from Saturday 22 July all Queenslanders aged 6 months and over will be eligible to receive free flu vaccinations.
This announcement has been welcomed by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland, with Branch President Chris Owen saying the free flu vaccination program will go a long way in increasing the uptake of vaccinations.
“At a time of suboptimal influenza vaccination rates, this free program will allow all Queenslanders to access this important vaccination at a community pharmacy,” says Mr Owen.
“With only 27% of Queenslanders vaccinated against influenza this season, this program will remove any financial barrier to immunisation. Flu vaccination is not only for the protection of yourself but those families and friends who may be more at risk.
“With the increase of cost of living pressures impacting the community, we applaud the government for making this initiative free ensuring there are no barriers for Queenslanders in putting their health first.
“Community pharmacists are ready to roll out the free program and are urging more Queenslanders to take up this free initiative.
“With community pharmacies being the most accessible, with extending trading hours and availability on weekends, we are urging more families to book their vaccination through findapharmacy.com.au.
“Anyone who has an existing booking at a community pharmacy this week, don’t cancel, it will be free,” says Mr Owen.
