Rest assured: the Australian Pharmacy Guild is advising people to get vaccinated against the flu, with a severe season ahead. Photo of Contributed
The Australian Pharmacy Guild is advising Benalla residents to take advantage of a free flu shot.
The combination of COVID-19 and a severe flu season makes vaccination even more important this year to help prevent the flu and its complications.
Vaccination is a way to protect people from serious illnesses caused by the flu, and getting vaccinated against the flu also helps protect others, especially those who are too sick or too young to be vaccinated.
The National President of the Australian Pharmacy Guild, Professor Trent Twomey, has warned against complacency with the flu.
“Last year the flu number dropped, largely due to blockages and isolation,” Twomey said.
“This year was expected to be very different and we are already seeing a resurgence of flu infections.
“Many people do not recognize the danger of the flu.
“However, getting vaccinated is the way to protect yourself and your community.”
Getting vaccinated against the flu at your community pharmacy is easy and convenient.
“You can rely on the skills and abilities of pharmacists in your local community,” Mr. Twomey said.
“Pharmacists can vaccinate people from a wide range of ages, from children to older adults.
“In some states, pharmacists can vaccinate children from the age of five.
“Community pharmacists are among Australia’s most accessible healthcare professionals and are therefore well positioned to deliver flu vaccines.
“There is often no waiting time to get a flu shot at the pharmacy.
“In Australia … more than 72% of residents in regional areas live 2.5 km from a pharmacy, so they are very comfortable and easy to reach for most people.”
With the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, the need to protect yourself from the flu is more important than ever. And confusingly, the symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 may be similar.
The symptoms to consider are:
- Loss or change in sense of smell or taste;
- Fever;
- Chills or sweats;
- Cough;
- A sore throat;
- Shortness of breath; i
- Nasal discharge.
Some people may also experience headaches, muscle aches, nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Flu symptoms can affect very quickly and can last for several weeks.
Flu protection is better than cure, and in addition to getting vaccinated, there are simple steps anyone can take to help reduce the risk of getting or catching the flu:
- Cough or sneeze at the elbow;
- Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly;
- Rest and recover at home.
If you experience more severe symptoms, seek medical attention.
You can also book an appointment to receive a flu shot by visiting or calling your local pharmacy or findapharmacy.com.au