Farrer MP Sussan Ley is urging residents across the border region to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated ahead of an earlier start to the 2024 flu season.
The usual beginning of flu season is next month into June, but medical experts are warning of a growing number of cases picked up in the first few months of this year.
According to Ms Ley, nationally we’ve seen the most flu cases for any January to March quarter on record.
“Locally, across the NSW Murrumbidgee and NE Victorian health districts, we’ve had 316 cases so far this year compared to 130 during the first three months of 2023.
“Across NSW it’s a similar story, up in January-March from 6,020 last year to 12,220 in 2024.
“A vaccination is recommended for anyone over SIX months of age and is free for anyone who qualifies under the National Immunisation Program, which includes…
• children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
• people aged 65 years and over
• pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• First Nations people aged 6 months and over
• people aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions
“Getting the jab at your local chemist is becoming more and more convenient, with the difficulty some people have getting into see their regular GP. It is also quick and convenient.
“The vaccine can take a little while to become effective, so get vaccinated now to make sure your immunity is at full strength before the flu season takes full effect.”
To locate a chemist near you go to Flu Vaccination Program ‘Find a Pharmacy’.
