Don’t forget your flu vaccination!

Firstly, any COVID vaccination will not protect you from getting the flu. They are two different viruses which require two different vaccines.  

Here are a few things you should consider:

Flu is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause widespread illness and deaths every year.  

Increased hand-hygiene and social distancing helped to stop the spread of flu viruses in the community over the last couple of years, but this flu season may be different.  

Influenza is a very contagious infection of the airways. It affects people of all ages. Although it can be a mild disease, it can also cause very serious illness in otherwise healthy people.  

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect you from serious disease caused by the flu.  

By getting vaccinated against the flu virus, you can also help protect other people, especially people who are too sick or too young to be vaccinated. The more people who are vaccinated in your community, the less likely the disease will spread.  

Annual immunisation is recommended as the influenza virus is constantly changing, and the vaccine changes accordingly.

If you are due to get a COVID vaccine or booster, you can now get your influenza vaccination at the same time (co-administered on the same day) as advised by the Australian Technical Advisory Group (ATAGI).

If you have been ill with COVID, it is best to wait until you have fully recovered before getting the flu vaccine.

Getting vaccinated in autumn is recommended.  This provides protection in time for the peak flu season (usually in winter in most parts of Australia).  However, it is never too late to vaccinate since it can circulate in the community all year round.    

If you have any questions or concerns, always speak to your doctor.  

Sources:  

www.health.gov.au/  

ATAGI

https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or health professional. Always seek your own medical advice regarding the flu vaccination from your doctor or health professional.

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