Campaign to get vaccinated before challenging winter season

The NSW government has launched winter vaccine campaign with Indigenous people a key target as research around the world has indicated the possibility of a higher than usual influenza activity this year.

Flu vaccines have been made available earlier than usual to doctors and pharmacies, where people can go to get the jab.

The influenza vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and older
• Children aged six months to less than five years
• People aged 65 years and older
• Pregnant women
• Those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, severe asthma, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the government was urging the community to get vaccinated ahead of the peak respiratory virus season.

“Respiratory viruses such as flu are expected to rise this winter – and we are expecting higher flu activity this season,” she said.

“The best way to protect your loved ones is to get vaccinated.

“That’s why we’re offering free flu vaccines for all children aged six months to under five years and people aged 65 years and older, as well as vulnerable individuals such as pregnant women and people with medical risk factors.”