Early, severe flu season prompts vaccination encouragement

ALMOST three million Australians living with asthma are being encouraged to get the flu vaccine now and not delay ahead of a predicted early and severe influenza season.

The National Asthma Council (NAC) Australia and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) are behind the call, with 60 to 70 per cent of asthma attacks due to viral infections.

Asthma impacts almost 2.8 million Australians, including children and adults, affecting the airways of people living with the condition.

NAC clinical executive lead, clinical associate professor Debbie Rigby said people with allergies and asthma tend to be hit the hardest from viral infection.

“Even though it might seem early to get the vaccine, it will remain effective for up to five months and provide immunity right throughout the flu season that commonly runs from June to September.

“Each year 25 to 30 per cent of influenza vaccines are delivered by community pharmacy, so filling your next asthma medication script is the perfect time to speak to your pharmacist about also getting your flu vaccine.”

Australians who are at a higher risk have free access to the vaccinations and can be accessed via community pharmacies across Australia offering the vaccinations.

PSA National president associate professor Fei Sim encouraged people not to wait until peak season to get vaccinated.

“It’s still early in the season and we’re already seeing record numbers of flu cases.

“The latest figures show more than 67,000 laboratory-confirmed cases already this year, with cases expected to jump even higher once the cooler months hit.

“Vaccination is the best protection against severe illness.

“We are encouraging all Australians living with asthma to visit their local community pharmacy and speak to their pharmacist about immunisation as soon as possible.”

Ms Rigby also encouraged asthma suffers to schedule an annual asthma review with their GP to discuss any changes and update written asthma action plans.