Influenza vaccination program continues

Published on 01 May 2020

Gannawarra Shire Council’s annual influenza vaccination program continues to be implemented across the Gannawarra, with health services working together to ensure high vaccination rates.

Council’s immunisation team administered more than 1,000 doses of the influenza (flu) vaccine in April, with more expected over the coming weeks.

“I encourage everyone to take every possible step to help stop the spread of flu this winter and the best way you can help prevent getting and spreading the flu is with an annual flu shot,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“It is recommended that everyone aged six months and over receive an annual flu shot, particularly if they are in an at-risk group and eligible for a free, government-funded flu vaccine.”

Immunisation against the flu is government funded and free for:

•             Children aged six months to under five years of age;

•             Pregnant women;

•             People aged over 65;

•             Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (6 months and over); and

•             People with chronic medical conditions.

Should proof of influenza immunisation for the purposes of education, employment or visiting aged care facilities be required, residents are advised to discuss this requirement with the relevant immunisation provider at the time of booking.

“Immunisation providers are required to upload immunisation records to the Australian Immunisation Register so that they are available via myGov accounts, however this may take time due to the increased demand being experienced,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“Proof of immunisation after you receive your flu shot will be able to be provided but immunisation providers will need to have this ready for your collection.”

For details regarding accessing an influenza vaccine, please contact your local GP, health clinic, pharmacist or Council on (03) 5450 9333. Please note that waiting lists to access the vaccine may be in place.

For more information regarding influenza vaccinations, please visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/flu-influenza-immunisation