Have You had Your 2023 Flu Shot?

Seasonal flu is expected to continue in 2023 and we encourage all our patients 6 months or older to have the vaccination to protect yourself. An annual vaccination against the flu is the main measure of protection against influenza and its possible complications.

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While the flu can affect all people, it can be particularly serious for babies, young children, pregnant women, elderly people, and people with underlying conditions. The influenza vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself heading into this flu season.

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Stay informed, stay protected

• Influenza vaccination is recommended. Flu activity is expected to continue in 2023.
• Influenza vaccine can be co-administered (given on the same day) with any COVID-19 vaccine.
• If a person has had the 2022 influenza vaccine in late 2022 or early 2023, they are still recommended to receive a 2023 dose when it becomes available.

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Under the National Immunisation Program, the flu shot is free for:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over

• Children aged 6 months to under 5 years

• People aged 65 years and over (a vaccine that is specifically designed to produce a higher immune response is available for this group).

• Individuals aged 5 months and over with medical risk conditions, including:

• Cardiac disease, including cyanotic congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure
• Chronic respiratory conditions, including suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe asthma (for which frequent medical consultations or the use of multiple medications is required), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis and chronic emphysema.
• Chronic neurological conditions, including hereditary and degenerative central nervous system (CNS) diseases (including multiple sclerosis), neuromuscular disorders, spinal cord injuries and seizure disorders
• Immunocompromising conditions, including immunocompromised due to disease or treatment (e.g. malignancy, transplantation and/or chronic steroid use), asplenia or splenic dysfunction and HIV infection
• Diabetes and other metabolic disorders, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and chronic metabolic disorders
• Chronic renal failure
• Haemoglobinopathies
• Children aged 6 months to 10 years on long term aspirin therapy

• Pregnant women (influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy)

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Arrange your flu vaccine appointment by clicking the ‘Book Now’ button on our website or by calling our practice on 6768 3222.

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