The importance of getting a flu shot this season is being emphasised through the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s TV ad campaign going to air nationally from 27 May.
The advertisements highlight that the best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated with vaccines available at your local community pharmacy.
Acting National President of the Pharmacy Guild, Nick Panayiaris, said every indication was this would be a very severe flu season.
“The combination of Covid-19 and a severe flu season makes having a vaccination all the more important this year to help prevent influenza and its complications,” he said.
“Vaccination is a way to protect people from serious disease caused by influenza and getting vaccinated against the flu also helps protect other people, especially those who are too sick or too young to be vaccinated.
“Last year influenza numbers were down, largely because of lockdowns and isolation. This year is anticipated to be a lot different and we are already seeing a resurgence of influenza infections and increased hospital presentations.
“The Queensland Government’s decision to provide free flu shots is welcome and other States and Territories should also look at ways to help remove out-of-pocket costs as a barrier for patients in their jurisdiction.”
Mr Panayiaris said many people failed to recognise how dangerous the flu was.
“However, getting vaccinated is the way to protect yourself and your community,” he said.
“Getting your flu shot at your community pharmacy is easy and convenient.
“You can be confident in your local community pharmacists’ skills and ability. Pharmacists can vaccinate people across a wide range of ages, from children to elderly adults. In some States, pharmacists can vaccinate children from five years of age.
“Community pharmacists are among Australia’s most accessible and trusted healthcare professionals and so are very well-placed to administer flu shots.
“There is often no waiting time to receive a flu vaccine at a pharmacy. You can book an appointment to receive a flu vaccination through findapharmacy.com.au.”
