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Influenza Update
A message from our Immunisation Coordinator
The much-anticipated 2022 flu season is fast approaching. South Australia (and Australia in general) has had very quiet flu seasons for the past two years, with very low laboratory confirmed flu notifications, but can we be sure this will continue in 2022?
It is possible that our flu season could be mild. With the COVID-19 Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 variants still circulating and dominating in the community, there is the potential that this ‘virus crowding’ may not allow the flu virus to circulate and cause havoc. On the other hand, our flu season could be moderate to severe. Data is showing that there has been increased flu activity in the current Northern Hemisphere winter season, despite COVID-19 still circulating. Experts in Australia are concerned that low circulating flu virus in the past two years and a noted decrease in flu vaccine uptake may result in people being more vulnerable to flu infection this year. Low circulating flu disease means we have not had any exposures to the flu virus to boost our immunity, and low vaccine uptake means our antibody levels have waned and will not be protective. Here are the most effective ways to protect you, your friends and family from influenza (the flu): 1. Get vaccinated against the flu 2. Practice good personal hygiene like washing your hands regularly 3. Cover coughs and sneezes 4. Do not share personal items 5. Clean surfaces around your home and work 6. Stay at home if unwell Flu vaccination can be administered to anyone six months of age and older who wishes to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with influenza. Flu vaccines are available from many different providers, including - General Practices (your local doctor) and Aboriginal Medical Services: The doctor can provide you with a prescription for a flu vaccine if you are not eligible to receive a funded one. Remember, do not take prescription vaccines home with you as they require strict storage conditions. Pharmacies: Many pharmacies provide the flu vaccine for any person aged 10 years or older. You do not need a prescription. Most vaccinating pharmacies now have access to the funded vaccine for certain people:
1. Pregnant women (any stage of pregnancy) 2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander people aged 10 years and older 3. Individuals aged 65 years and older If you are eligible for a funded flu vaccine because of your medical conditions, please see your local doctor or local council immunisation clinic.
Local Council Immunisation
Services: Many of the Local Councils within the Adelaide metro region provide an immunisation service. Please contact your Local Council or visit their website to check what clinics and vaccines they offer. Although it would be nice to have at times, we don’t have a crystal ball that helps us predict the future. What we do know is: 1. Vaccination is our best defence against flu viruses 2. Flu vaccines can be administered on the same day as other scheduled vaccines, including
COVID-19 vaccines 3. There are different brands available, but if you are unsure which is the best one, we can assure you they are all good and the best flu vaccine is the one that is in your arm! Stay well this flu season!
Angela Newbound | Immunisation
