Priority influenza vaccine clinics opening soon

Published on 09 April 2020

Mildura Rural City Council will hold two influenza vaccine clinics this month, ensuring our community's most vulnerable have access to the vaccine first in the face of COVID-19.

The free clinics are available to people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and children aged from six months to under five–years-old.

Bookings are essential, allowing Council to manage numbers and meet social distancing measures. To book please call (03) 5018 8108.

Clinics will be held on the following dates:

People 65 and over Wednesday 15 April 9am – 12.30pm Irymple Senior Citizens Club Fifteenth Street, Irymple.

Pregnant women and children aged from six months to under five-years-old Tuesday 21 April 9am - 12.30pm Irymple Senior Citizens Club Fifteenth Street Irymple.

Councillor for Community Wellbeing and Services Gavin Sedgmen advised eligible residents to book a spot now.

"With COVID-19 spreading across Australia, combined with the onset of the regular 'flu season', it's doubly important to do what we can to protect our most vulnerable by receiving the regular seasonal influenza vaccination," Cr Sedgmen said.

"Influenza is a highly contagious virus that causes widespread illness each year.

"Immunisation is the most important way we can protect against influenza and reduce the number of influenza infections and deaths.

"It's also an effective way to help relieve the burden on the Australian health system, which is preparing for the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Cr Sedgmen said the three categories of eligible residents were selected based on advice they are some of the most at-risk groups.

From 1 May this year, influenza vaccinations will be mandatory for people planning to visit aged care facilities, including aged care workers.

Despite claims on social media influenza vaccinations may increase the risk of coronavirus infection, there is currently no credible evidence to support these claims.

Residents who are unwell, have flu like symptoms, a cough, fever, gastro or other symptoms are asked to stay home.

Additional clinics will be announced in coming weeks, including a clinic at Ouyen.

Media enquiries  Ben Piscioneri p) (03) 5018 8689  e) [email protected]