Should you get vaccinated?

In Australia, it is recommended that any person 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccination to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with influenza.

Flu is more serious than a common cold with suffers often restricted to their bed for up to a week or more, unable to work or care for loved ones. For others who are considered 'at risk' of complications from the flu, the illness can be much more serious and may lead to hospitalisation.¹

Persons considered at higher risk of complications include:

• People aged 65 years and over
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 6 months to <5 years and adolescents and adults aged 15 years and over.
• Pregnant women
• People with severe asthma, diabetes, chronic heart and kidney disease and certain chronic conditions.

People who are more likely to come in to contact with a person in the ‘at-risk’ category are also strongly encouraged to have an annual flu vaccination to reduce the likelihood of spreading the virus. This includes but is not limited to:

• Healthcare workers
• Emergency services workers.
• Workers in aged care and childcare facilities
• Anyone who lives or works with ‘at risk’ people.

Talk to your Guardian Pharmacy

Guardian pharmacies are offering flu vaccinations administered by one of our pharmacists or a visiting nurse practitioner. Participating pharmacies are listed below. Where online bookings are available customers are encouraged to make an appointment via the link provided. For all other participating Guardian pharmacies please call to determine if an appointment is required, or if walk-ins are accepted.

No prescriptions necessary. Fees apply.

Source:

1. Newall, A. Economic Report into the Cost of Influenza to the Australian Health System. Vaccine, 2007.