- Cook Government to provide free flu vaccines
for all Western Australians during the months of May and June
- Program to protect against illness and
provide cost of living relief this winter
- Influenza vaccines will be available at
participating GPs, community pharmacies and Aboriginal Medical Services
Western Australians are being urged to get their free influenza vaccine
from next month, to help prevent severe illness ahead of this winter.
This significant cost-of-living relief measure will help to protect
against the highly contagious influenza virus, which can severely affect the
respiratory system and cause symptoms ranging from minor to life-threatening.
The most vulnerable community members, including older adults, young
children and pregnant women, are most at risk of severe complications if they
get influenza.
The best protection against influenza is immunisation and last year
almost 32 per cent of eligible West Australians received an influenza
vaccination.
Free influenza vaccines will be available to all Western Australians
aged six-months and older, for the months of May and June. Some providers may
charge a small administration fee.
Receiving the vaccine during these months will optimise protection over
the peak period for influenza transmission in Western Australia.
Free vaccinations are available at GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and
participating community pharmacies.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
"The flu isn't a harmless condition,
especially for young people and older adults. It can cause serious illness and immunisation
is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones this winter.
"My Government is rolling out free
immunisation for the third year in a row to protect against severe illness and
provide cost of living relief for Western Australians.
"During May and June, everyone will be able
to access a free flu immunisation at participating GPs, community pharmacies
and Aboriginal Medical Services."
Comments attributed to Health Minister
Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Influenza
is highly contagious and can cause serious issues for young children, older
adults and people with chronic medical conditions.
"Concerningly, last year the flu hospitalised more than 1000 kids under
nine-years old.
"That
is why we are urging all Western Australians to get vaccinated against
influenza at your GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or participating community
pharmacy."
