LESS than two weeks remain for Queenslanders to get their free influenza shot and protect themselves against the risk of serious illness.
The Palaszczuk Government’s free flu vaccination campaign, held in partnership with GPs and Pharmacies, ends on Thursday 30 June.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath urged people not yet vaccinated against the flu to take advantage of the program.
“This campaign has been very successful since we launched it just over three weeks ago,” Minister D’Ath said.
More than 500,000 Queenslanders have been vaccinated against the flu since starting the program.
“The rollout has had an excellent response, lifting the state’s flu vaccination rate by around 10 per cent, taking it to just above 33 per cent,” Ms D’Ath said.
“But we want to protect more Queenslanders, especially those vulnerable to influenza.
“If you haven’t yet had your vaccination, I urge you to take up our offer of a free shot, for the sake of yourself, your family, and the community.”
Minister D’Ath said more than 20,000 people in Queensland had tested positive to flu so far this year, resulting in over 2,250 hospitalisations.
“This is already a harsh flu season, one that is on track to mirror the 2019 season when 66,135 cases were recorded,” she said.
“We’re only early in the season – Queensland’s flu season typically peaks in August.
“This year Influenza A is the dominant strain. It’s a highly contagious disease and can be life-threatening.”
The flu vaccine is recommended annually for anyone over 6 months of age.
For more information about vaccinations or to book a vaccination appointment, visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/immunisation/free-influenza-vaccinations-2022