Influenza is a viral disease that occurs seasonally, usually in winter, and causes a number of deaths every year. An influenza pandemic occurs when a new strain of influenza virus emerges, spreading around the globe and infecting many people at once and the number of deaths may increase dramatically.
Every year people in certain high-risk groups are more likely to be severely impacted by season flu than others. People considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza include:
- Those with chronic respiratory conditions
- Pregnant women (especially 2nd and 3rd trimester)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- People aged 65 years or older
- People with certain other chronic medical conditions such as:
- Cardiac disease (excluding simple hypertension)
- Diabetes mellitus
- Chronic metabolic disease
- Chronic renal or liver disease
- Haemoglobinopathies
- Immunosuppression (including cancers, HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive drugs)
- Chronic neurological conditions.
It is a good idea for all members of your household to get vaccinated against influenza as this will lessen the risk that they could give it to you.
The flu shot will reduce your child’s risk of influenza (flu), minimise the spread of flu and protect vulnerable groups including babies too young to receive the vaccine, those medically at risk and those with weakened immune systems.
It is particularly important for people at increased risk of severe illness from influenza to seek medical attention early if they develop symptoms.
2018 Flu Vaccination will be available mid April —Please call us on 02-96983060
