Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett is urging locals to get a flu jab to prevent an outbreak of influenza cases following last year’s horror season.
Mr Bennett said last year saw hundreds of lab-confirmed influenza cases in the Wide Bay region and across the state before the official flu season even peaked.
“There seems to be an alarming rise in the number of reported influenza cases in the region and across the state over the past couple of years, with last year being particularly bad,” he said.
“Vaccination is the best prevention method against the flu which is why it is so important that people take advantage of the immunisation available, particularly those most vulnerable in our community including the elderly and pregnant women.
“By getting your flu shot before the season is in full swing, you will not only be protecting yourself but helping to protect the entire community by stopping the spread of this virus.”
A recent Pharmacy Guild study showed an alarming 50 per cent of Australians were not planning to be immunised this year, while only 43 per cent were aware they need a flu shot every year to achieve maximum protection against the disease.
Mr Bennett received his flu vaccination at Terry White Chemist, highlighting just how easy it is to access this vital health service.
Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch President, Trent Twomey said having Mr Bennett as a flu vaccination customer sent an important message to the community, particularly given the recent survey results of about only half of Australians planning to have a flu shot this year.
“This demonstrates the ease of access to vaccinations through pharmacies, making it that much simpler for anyone to get their flu shot,” Trent said.
“It is so much easier and more convenient than having to go to the doctor, getting a prescription, taking it to the pharmacy to be dispensed, and then returning to the doctor to get the injection.
“Now people are able to come into a pharmacy and in a very short time get their vaccination and be protected against this disease.
“Last year we saw about 250,000 people being infected with the flu. Around 18,000 Australians are hospitalised due to the flu each year with 3,000 dying.”
ENDS.
Wednesday, 9 May 2018