The dreaded flu is back in 2022 after two relatively tame years stifled by Covid-19 restrictions, and the Victorian Government is encouraging young kids to get vaccinated.
Community pharmacists in Victoria can now administer flu vaccines to anyone over the age of 5 years old in a bid to assist the availability of flu shots, providing 600 alternative locations to GPs.
Minister for Health Martin Foley said it is the first time in two years that Victoria will face a real flu season and the change is making it easier for busy mums and dads to get their kids vaccinated from the flu.
“So next time you’re at your pharmacy, roll up your sleeve and get vaccinated against the flu, it not only protects you but also those around you,” he said.
“Help your family stay safe this winter by getting vaccinated, getting tested if you have any symptoms and staying home while unwell.”
More than 6400 cases of the flu have been reported already this year, already topping the 4792 reported cases in 2020 and the measly 110 known cases in 2021. The flu season usually occurs between April and September but this year has shown a dramatic rise, with children and young adults aged between 5 and 24 the most affected.
Pharmacists and nurse immunisers in Victoria will also be able to administer the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine following the detection in rural and regional Victoria earlier this year.
Both the flu and Covid-19 vaccine can be safely administered at the same time, and more than 87,000 children aged 5 to 11 are now overdue for their second COVID-19 vaccine so families are encouraged to protect themselves quickly and easily this winter.
