The Greens have called on the South Australian government to make the flu vaccine free for all amid an increase in cases.
Green House MP Robert Simms says SA should follow Queensland’s example to help limit the spread of the flu during the winter.
“It looks like the flu season is back with a vengeance. The numbers are rising and it’s vital that SA does its best to slow the spread,” Simms said.
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“Given the enormous health and economic implications of the spread of the flu, it makes sense to follow the example of Queensland.
“While many jobs offer the vaccine and it is free for some vulnerable groups, we cannot risk South Australians falling through the cracks.”
SA Health said there had been 727 reports of flu between January 1 and May 14 this year, compared to 12 cases in the same period last year.
Health Minister Chris Picton said the government would look into what had been introduced in Queensland, but did not immediately commit to providing free vaccines to everyone.
He said they were already free for those over 65 or under five and for those with chronic health issues.
The minister said the government had also moved to make vaccines more readily available through more than 280 pharmacies.
“We’re looking at what happened yesterday in Queensland and we’re asking for advice,” Picton said.
“But we are really encouraging everyone to show up for their flu shot and their VOCID shot to make sure they are protected this winter.
“We are taking steps to increase availability and we are looking at how we can do even more in the future.”