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WA urged to roll up as government rolls out free flu jabs
West Australians have been urged to roll up for free flu vaccines ahead of winter.
Premier Roger Cook said the vaccines, which would be free for all residents older than six months throughout May and June, were the best protection against the disease.
West Australians are being urged to take advantage of free flu vaccines ahead of winter.Credit: AP
“The flu isn’t a harmless condition, especially for young people and older adults,” he said.
“It can cause serious illness and immunisation is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones this winter.”
It is the third year in a row the government has offered free flu vaccines. Almost 32 per cent of eligible residents received a flu vaccine in 2023, according to the state government.
A federal Health Department report into last year’s flu season found it peaked earlier and lasted longer than pre-COVID flu seasons, but had an overall lower severity and societal impact, which was likely influenced by the effectiveness of 2023’s seasonal flu vaccine.
However, it also noted vaccine coverage rates were lower in 2023 than in 2022, especially among First Nations population.
Australian Medical Association national president Steve Robson said the start of the flu season had crept forward over the past few years.
“It’s really important that Australians make sure they’re ready, if they can get appointments to have vaccinations … because pre-pandemic there was a trend to reduce rates of influenza vaccination in Australia,” he told ABC Radio.
In WA, Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the flu hospitalised more than 1000 children younger than nine last year.
“That is why we are urging all Western Australians to get vaccinated against influenza at your GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or participating community pharmacy,” she said.
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