Not too late to get vaccinated against influenza

The flu vaccination clinics will be held at the Broken Hill Community Health Centre, 2-4 Sulphide Street, bottom floor on the below dates. These clinics are open to anyone and no bookings are required. Please bring your Medicare card.

• Thursday, 17 July from 10am to 4pm

• Thursday, 24 July, from 10am to 4pm

FWLHD Public Health Physician Dr Victor Carey said getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from serious illness, from influenza and other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV.

“It’s not too late to get vaccinated against these serious illnesses, especially for people aged 65 and over, children, pregnant women and anyone with existing health conditions,” Dr Carey said.

“I am urging the community to talk to their GP or pharmacist about getting the vaccines that are right for them.

“Vaccination is one of the best ways people can protect themselves and their loved ones. The vaccine is widely available through pharmacists and GPs.”

Influenza vaccine is free for:

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

FWLHD also continues to remind the community there are a few simple steps they can take to protect themselves and others from respiratory illness, including:

• staying up to date with their vaccinations
• staying home if they’re sick and wearing a mask if they need to go out
• avoiding crowded spaces and getting together in well-ventilated spaces
• consider doing a rapid antigen test before visiting those more vulnerable
• making a plan with their doctor if they’re at higher risk of severe illness
• practicing good general hygiene, like regular handwashing.

If an illness or injury is not serious or life-threatening, we encourage the community to call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, for 24-hour advice. A nurse will answer your call, ask some questions and connect you with the right care.