GLENELG Shire residents are being urged to protect themselves against the flu this winter by getting their annual flu vaccination.
More than 48,000 confirmed cases of influenza were reported last year, placing a record demand on the state’s hospitals and health system, with many local services affected.
Glenelg Shire environmental health officer Aaron Kennett said community members should not underestimate the severity of the flu.
“The flu is not like the common cold – it can hit quickly and last for a few weeks, meaning time off work or school and staying away from family and friends,” he said.
For vulnerable residents – children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases or a weakened immune system – the flu can have devastating outcomes.
Over 3500 avoidable deaths occur in Australia every year from complications of seasonal flu.
“Given the severity of last year’s flu season, the 2018 campaign message is simple – you never forget the flu, so do not forget your flu shot,” Mr Kennett said.
All Victorians over 65, children aged six months to under five years, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 15 years and over and anyone with a chronic condition or weakened immune system are all eligible for a free flu vaccine.
Glenelg Shire Council will offer free flu vaccine clinics for children aged six months and under five years at the Casterton Kathleen Millikan Centre on Thursday, May 31, from 2pm to 4pm and Thursday, June 7, from 1pm to 4pm.
