Everyone urged to get flu vaccine jab

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said cases are rising quickly throughout the community, with several recent outbreaks also affecting boarding schools.
There were 2000 new flu cases notified in NSW in the week ending May 7, compared with 1,024 cases in the previous week, as well as around 60 emergency department presentations for flu-like illness that required an admission to hospital.
“We are also seeing an increase in the proportion of people testing positive. Of 25,556 tests conducted for influenza in the week ending May 7, 9.1 per cent were positive, compared with 5.3 per cent in the previous week,” Dr Chant said.
Vaccination provides essential protection for people of all ages against severe illness from influenza, but it is particularly important for those more vulnerable.
Everyone six months and older is recommended to get a flu shot. The rollout of the flu vaccination program is the Commonwealth Government’s responsibility and vaccines are available through GPs, and pharmacies for everyone aged 10 years and over.
Those considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza are eligible for a free flu vaccine.
NSW Health continues to urge everyone to take simple precautions to protect each other:
• Stay at home if you are sick and avoid close contact with other people to protect yourself and the community from flu and Covid-19;
• Wear a mask in indoor spaces if you are unable to physically distance;
• Gather in well ventilated spaces or open windows and doors;
• Sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands; and
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often.