Released 28/04/2021
Canberrans are being encouraged to book their flu shot as we head into the winter season.
The 2021 flu vaccination campaign launched today, reminding Canberrans where to book their flu shot and to forward plan to allow enough time between the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccination.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said while there has been a strong focus on the COVID-19 vaccination in recent months, the influenza vaccine is still very important and the best defence against the flu.
“Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection and can cause very serious illness. To better protect you and your family from the flu, it is important to be vaccinated every year. We all need to do our bit to limit its spread through our community,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Most Canberrans will need at least three vaccine doses this year – one for flu and two for COVID-19.
The flu vaccine needs to be given at least 14 days before or after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. People who are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine should get this done first and follow up with a flu shot at least two weeks after.
“People who are not yet eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine should get their flu shot now so they are well protected before the influenza season begins.
“Anyone who has concerns or questions about either vaccine should speak to their GP or healthcare provider,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
In 2020, only 200 cases of influenza were recorded in the ACT. This was a significant decline from the previous year, when more than 4000 cases were recorded. This was in large part to changed behaviours in response to COVID-19 including keeping our physical distance and staying home if unwell.
“It’s important that we minimise our risk of getting influenza when the risk of getting COVID-19 is still a possibility in our community,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
People who are at higher risk of catching influenza virus and developing complications are eligible for a free vaccine under the National Immunisation Program. These people include:
- children aged six months to under five years
- pregnant women
- people aged 65 years and older
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and older
- people aged six months and older with underlying medical conditions
The flu vaccine is available from GPs, a range of pharmacies for those over ten years of age, and Early Childhood Immunisation Centres for those who are six months to under five years of age.
For more information on the flu vaccine
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Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases