North Coast residents urged to boost their immunity by getting their flu vaccination

Healthy North Coast is reminding residents across our region to book in for a flu shot this month, to ensure they boost their immunity leading into the winter flu season.

Whilst flu can circulate at any time, it’s more likely to happen in the colder months of the year, between April and September.

A yearly flu shot is recommended for everyone aged six months and over, and the vaccine can often be given with other vaccines, including COVID-19.

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In 2020 and 2021 there were historically low levels of flu across the North Coast as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, however in 2022 and 2023 there was a resurgence due to the reopening of international borders, with cases peaking in June each year. In June 2023, there were around 1,800 notifications of influenza (all strains) in Northern NSW and Mid North Coast local health districts.

Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler is urging the community to think now about their options for receiving a flu shot:

“Last year, many in our community left it too late, with particularly high numbers of residents suffering from influenza due to the early start to the winter flu season,” Ms Wheeler explained.

“The highest level of protection happens in the first 3 to 4 months following vaccination which is why it is so important to receive a flu shot now.”

“We are urging North Coast residents to ensure they book in for a flu shot with their GP, local pharmacy, health professional or Aboriginal Medical Service as soon as possible,” Ms Wheeler added.

Local GP, Dr Debra King, emphasised the importance of keeping up to date with vaccinations:

“Not only does getting vaccinated against influenza protect you from the debilitating effects of the flu, it also plays a crucial role in keeping our hospitals and health services from becoming overwhelmed.

“Vaccination is a simple yet powerful tool in safeguarding our communities’ health and preventing unnecessary hospitalisations.”

FREE flu vaccines are available for those considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza including:

• children six months to under five years
• people 65 and over
• Aboriginal people from six months of age
• pregnant women
• those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, severe asthma, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease.

There are some simple precautions you can take to minimise the risk of catching the flu and passing it on including:

• staying at home if you are sick and avoiding close contact with other people
• wearing a mask in indoor spaces if you are unable to physically distance
• sneezing into your elbow instead of your hands
• washing your hands thoroughly and often.

For further advice on how to protect yourself and loved ones this flu this season visit here.  You can also find your nearest vaccination clinic by using the Service Finder here.

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