IMAGE: https://www.health.gov.au/
The experts say overwhelmingly yes! As government restrictions start to ease, it’s likely that we will hit a peak of COVID-19 cases right in the middle of flu season.
Both diseases can cause serious health complications. The flu can be serious enough to send you to hospital, even if you are young, and otherwise well.
The main reason experts are pushing hard for the flu vaccine is to help prevent individuals from acquiring two serious illnesses at once. It will also help reduce the burden on our community and health system.
While the flu vaccination doesn’t guarantee you won’t get the flu, if you do get it, your symptoms will be milder and you’ll recover more quickly.
Everyone should be vaccinated and for some the National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides free vaccines from your local GP. The NIP covers vaccinations for those most at risk, including:
• Pregnant women
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• People aged 65 years and older (a different vaccine is available for those over 65)
• People with certain medical conditions;
• For the first time, all children aged between six months and five years.
For those who aren’t eligible for a free vaccination, you are able to receive the vaccination from one of our qualified pharmacists in store. We are qualified to vaccinate anyone over the age of ten years without a prescription from the doctor.
Give us call on 6862 2411 or pop into Parkes Pharmacy, located in the Metroplaza, and have a chat with our amazing staff.