Vaccination recommended as flu cases rise

Barwon Health is urging the community to get the flu vaccination, following a rapid increase in flu cases and a spike in hospitalisations.

Last week, flu cases across the Barwon South West region saw a 10 per cent rise on the preceding week, and overall, cases are up by 13 per cent compared with this time last year.

Dr Belinda Hibble, Barwon Health’s director of emergency services, said her team is seeing extremely unwell patients presenting to the emergency department with the flu.

“Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications,” she said.

“We are seeing a spike in hospitalisations for flu at University Hospital Geelong, with patients presenting across all ages.”

Professor Daniel O’Brien, director of Barwon Health’s department of infectious diseases, said the best way to prevent serious illness from flu is to get vaccinated.

“Getting vaccinated against the flu is the best way to protect yourself and your family from what can be a very serious illness.”

He also confirmed Barwon Health was seeing flu cases across all age groups, with children aged 5-11 representing the highest number of cases so far this year.

“It’s not too late to have your flu shot,” Professor O’Brien said.

“We urge anyone in the community who is able to receive the flu vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible, especially very young children, the elderly or those with medical conditions that put them at risk, such as those involving the lung or immune system.

“It’s also important to know that if you think you may have the flu and have medical conditions that put you at risk, or if you are very unwell, then contact your GP as there are treatments available.

“Serious complications and further infections can also occur in the weeks after illness, so see your GP if you aren’t getting better.”

If you have the flu, Barwon Health recommends following three simple steps to help prevent the spread:

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow
• Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and water as flu viruses can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours and are spread when people touch an infected surface, and
• Rest and recover at home. Avoid going out and if you do need to go out, wear a mask.

Flu vaccinations are available through your local GP or pharmacy and bookings can also be made through Barwon Health’s Immunisation Program, which is free for eligible groups.

For more information, head to bswphu.org.au