Public urged to get flu jab

With influenza hitting early and strong this year, health authorities are warning people to get vaccin-ated.

Parents were notified last week about one confirmed case of influenza at Mt Lockyer Primary School.

The flu season typically peaks in August and September and the virus can cause mild to serious illness and even lead to hospitalisation. Great Southern Population Health’s Dr Tania Wallace said the flu season had come early this year and stressed the importance of vaccines.

She said the number of cases seen was already comparable to the peak of last year’s season.

“This unseasonal activity has occurred across Australia, with the current levels of influenza activity comparable to the peak of last year’s season,” Dr Wallace said.

“Flu is a serious disease, and with increased numbers we are seeing hospital admissions and deaths across Australia, particularly in the vulnerable population.

“With this early unseasonal flu activity, we are concerned that flu numbers will continue to increase over winter.”

Dr Wallace urges people to protect themselves from the flu this season.

“It’s a serious disease resulting in complications such as pneumonia, hospitalisation and death — the flu vaccine is the best way for the public to protect themselves against the flu and protect our friends, family and colleagues,” she said.

The flu vaccine is now available in the Great Southern from your GP or usual immunisation provider.