Health officials encourage vaccinations ahead of looming flu season
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With the leaves changing colours and the air getting cooler, Australians are also seeing signs of a challenging flu season ahead.
Health officials in New South Wales are sounding the alarm, urging residents to take action and get vaccinated as influenza cases are on the rise, with predictions of a particularly severe season looming.
The latest respiratory surveillance report revealed that over 4,700 individuals were diagnosed with the flu in the past month alone—a 16 per cent increase from the same period last year.
Hospital admissions for influenza-like illnesses have surged, with 480 admissions recorded between January 6 and April 2024, nearly doubling the 284 admissions during the same timeframe in 2023.
Experts predicted that the upcoming flu season could rival or even surpass the severity of the previous year.
It's estimated that one in three Australians could fall prey to a cold or influenza, a statistic that underscores the importance of preventative measures.
Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant highlighted the alarming trend of more young children facing life-threatening complications from the flu, with an increase in admissions to intensive care units in 2023.
To avert a similar crisis in 2024, Dr Chant is calling on families to prioritise getting their flu shots before the season hits its peak.
‘It is a very quick and easy process to book in with your local doctor or pharmacist who can also administer your Covid-19 vaccine at the same time if recommended,’ he said.
'This simple act can help you and your family stay healthy this winter,' he added.
The call to action is especially urgent for those at higher risk of severe illness, including children aged six months to five years, individuals aged 65 and over, Aboriginal people from six months of age, pregnant women, and those with serious health conditions.
These groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine, available at local GP clinics or pharmacies.
In a concerted effort to bolster community health, NSW Health is also encouraging residents to consider receiving a COVID-19 booster alongside their flu vaccination.
NSW Premier Chris Minns warned that influenza is not only highly contagious but can be life-threatening, particularly for vulnerable populations.
‘Getting the flu jab is the best way to protect yourself and the wider community,’ he said.
Health Minister Ryan Park observed an uptick in virus activity across the country and is advocating for vaccination as a means of self-protection and community responsibility.
The impact of influenza was felt by at least 300,000 Australians in 2023, as the illness spread more freely in the post-COVID-19 pandemic environment.
The nation's cold and flu capitals have been identified, with Newcastle, Liverpool, and Blacktown in NSW topping the list.
Other areas across Australia, including Southport in Queensland, Hillarys in Western Australia, and Warrnambool in Victoria, are also forecasted to experience high levels of cold and flu symptoms.
Source: 7NEWS Australia/YouTube
Feel free to share your insights and strategies for staying healthy during flu season in the comments section below. Have you received your flu shot? What steps are you taking to prepare for the colder months?
Health officials in New South Wales are sounding the alarm, urging residents to take action and get vaccinated as influenza cases are on the rise, with predictions of a particularly severe season looming.
The latest respiratory surveillance report revealed that over 4,700 individuals were diagnosed with the flu in the past month alone—a 16 per cent increase from the same period last year.
Hospital admissions for influenza-like illnesses have surged, with 480 admissions recorded between January 6 and April 2024, nearly doubling the 284 admissions during the same timeframe in 2023.
NSW health officials urged residents to get vaccinated against influenza. Image source: Unsplash
Experts predicted that the upcoming flu season could rival or even surpass the severity of the previous year.
It's estimated that one in three Australians could fall prey to a cold or influenza, a statistic that underscores the importance of preventative measures.
Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant highlighted the alarming trend of more young children facing life-threatening complications from the flu, with an increase in admissions to intensive care units in 2023.
To avert a similar crisis in 2024, Dr Chant is calling on families to prioritise getting their flu shots before the season hits its peak.
‘It is a very quick and easy process to book in with your local doctor or pharmacist who can also administer your Covid-19 vaccine at the same time if recommended,’ he said.
'This simple act can help you and your family stay healthy this winter,' he added.
The call to action is especially urgent for those at higher risk of severe illness, including children aged six months to five years, individuals aged 65 and over, Aboriginal people from six months of age, pregnant women, and those with serious health conditions.
These groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine, available at local GP clinics or pharmacies.
In a concerted effort to bolster community health, NSW Health is also encouraging residents to consider receiving a COVID-19 booster alongside their flu vaccination.
NSW Premier Chris Minns warned that influenza is not only highly contagious but can be life-threatening, particularly for vulnerable populations.
‘Getting the flu jab is the best way to protect yourself and the wider community,’ he said.
Health Minister Ryan Park observed an uptick in virus activity across the country and is advocating for vaccination as a means of self-protection and community responsibility.
The impact of influenza was felt by at least 300,000 Australians in 2023, as the illness spread more freely in the post-COVID-19 pandemic environment.
The nation's cold and flu capitals have been identified, with Newcastle, Liverpool, and Blacktown in NSW topping the list.
Other areas across Australia, including Southport in Queensland, Hillarys in Western Australia, and Warrnambool in Victoria, are also forecasted to experience high levels of cold and flu symptoms.
Source: 7NEWS Australia/YouTube
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I fear for my parents and their friends if this flu gets hold of them. Well into their 70’s and obviously not without health issues. 
