Following the news that many parts of the country are offering free flu vaccines throughout the month of June, the Tasmanian Government has announced it will be following suit.
From Monday 6 June, flu vaccinations will be available in Tasmania through community pharmacies free of charge to the State’s residents aged from 10 years and over.
This program will be in place for one month.
Pharmacy Guild of Australia Tasmania Branch President, Helen O’Byrne, commends Premier Rockliff on his prompt response to what is emerging as a very severe flu season.
“Harnessing the vaccinating capacity of community pharmacists is crucial to tackling all avoidable hospitalisations”, says Ms O’Byrne.
“This is an important community health outcome for the people of Tasmania and will help keep them safe from severe illness.”
“While providers have already administered over 200,000 flu vaccinations to Tasmanians, the combination of COVID-19 and the flu makes it all the more important for everyone to be vaccinated against the flu this season.
“This decision to make the flu vaccination available free of charge through community pharmacies is a very pragmatic move in helping ensure there is maximum uptake of flu vaccinations,” she says.
Ms O’Byrne says that making flu vaccinations available through community pharmacies allows greater community access to the vaccines, especially for those who live in more regional areas.
Those interested in obtaining their free flu vaccinations are encouraged to speak with their local community pharmacy or visit findapharmacy.com.au to find out more.