Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is encouraging Gilmore residents to get their annual influenza vaccine now, ahead of the peak flu season which usually occurs from around June to September.
Mrs Phillips said most residents could now access a range of vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 shots, through their accredited community pharmacy.
“With vaccines now available through many pharmacies in Gilmore, it saves time and the additional costs associated with visiting your GP,” she said.
“We know vaccines can save lives and prevent us from becoming seriously unwell, so I urge everyone to book in and get their flu and COVID shots to protect themselves before we hit winter.”
To take advantage of the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) Program, residents can make appointments online through their local pharmacy’s website.
Some people are eligible to get the flu vaccine for free, including children aged six months to under five years, people aged 65 and over, Aboriginal people from six months of age, pregnant women and those with serious health conditions that put them at risk, such as diabetes, cancer and immune disorders.
When people book, they should ask their pharmacist or GP if they are eligible for a free flu vaccine.
“The program ensures more Australians have convenient and affordable access to lifesaving vaccines, with no out of pocket expenses for some of our most vulnerable residents,” Mrs Phillips said.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a serious respiratory virus that circulates widely in Australia over winter, and can cause more serious complications, including hospitalisation and death - even in healthy people.
“People can protect themselves, family members and the wider community by getting a flu shot each year,” Mrs Phillips added.
“Reported cases of the flu to date in Australia are 40 per cent higher than this time last year, that’s why I rolled up my sleeve and had my flu shot at Priceline Nowra this week.”
The Albanese Government is also protecting Australians in aged care and disability residential facilities by funding pharmacists for the first time to provide free flu and other National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines at the homes.
“I encourage everyone in living in Gilmore, particularly those in aged care or disability homes, to get vaccinated against the flu.
“The vaccine is safe and effective – and free for those most at risk.”
More information about the annual flu vaccination is available at www.health.gov.au.
Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips popped into Priceline Pharmacy in Nowra where she was given her flu shot by owner pharmacist Ali Bazzi.
