Extra flu vaccine rolls out

MORE Victorians now have greater access to influenza vaccines as extra supplies are available, according to the state’s Chief Health Officer.

Professor Charles Guest said an additional vaccine production run organised by the federal government meant about 120,000 doses of vaccine that can be used in all adults 18 years and above were now available.

“And there are more than 70,000 doses of vaccine for younger age groups eligible under the Victorian funded program for children six months to under five years now available to GPs and immunisation providers.

“Children under nine years of age who have never before received a flu vaccine need two doses given one month apart to be fully protected.

“Any at risk groups in the community who are eligible for free vaccine under the National Immunisation Program or the Victorian under five program who have not had their shot so far this year can now obtain it from their GP or vaccination provider.”

Vaccination is still highly recommended for all Victorians, especially those in the “at risk” groups.

“Flu vaccinations save lives. We know influenza is a highly contagious viral infection, spread by contact with fluids from coughs and sneezes; that’s why we’ve obtained more vaccine to protect more Victorians,” Professor Guest said.

“It’s never too late to get a flu shot, and with influenza activity just now on the rise, getting a shot now will provide full season protection right through winter and beyond the expected peak in late September.

“When more people are vaccinated, fewer people become ill or suffer life-threatening complications from influenza.”

In total, Victoria has distributed 1,731,184 influenza vaccines. This is 448,000 more doses than 2017, when 1,283,580 vaccines were distributed.