Get the flu shot: The Australian Pharmacy Guild encourages people to get the flu shot at their local pharmacy. Photo of Contributed
Pharmacy Guild of Australia National President Professor Trent Twomey has warned against complacency with the COVID-19 flu vaccine and a severe flu season.
Professor Twomey said they were seeing a resurgence of the flu following the suppression of the number of cases last year due to blockages and isolation.
“A lot of people don’t recognize how dangerous the flu is,” he said.
“However, getting vaccinated is the way to protect yourself and your community.”
Professor Twomey encouraged community members to get vaccinated against the flu at a pharmacy, as pharmacists were very accessible.
“You can rely on the skills and abilities of pharmacists in your local community,” he said.
“Pharmacists can vaccinate people from a wide range of ages, from children to older adults.
“More than 72% of residents in regional areas live 2.5 km from a pharmacy, so they are really comfortable and easy to reach for most people.”
Where to go in Cobram
Cobram Discount Drugstore: offers flu shots in-store from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Amcal Cobram Pharmacy (Paul Ukich): Offering flu shots from Monday to Wednesday, from 5.30 pm by appointment only, telephone 5872 1143, for people aged 18 to 65.
The symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu are very similar, but everyone is advised to pay attention to:
- loss or change in odor or taste;
- fever, chills, or sweating;
- cough and sore throat;
- shortness of breath; i
- nasal discharge.
People may also experience headaches, muscle aches, nasal congestion, nausea, and vomiting.
To prevent getting the flu, cough and sneeze at your elbow and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly.
If you feel unwell, rest at home and avoid going out, wear a mask if necessary.
A pharmacist can give advice on managing common flu symptoms; if there are more severe symptoms, seek medical attention.