Although Summer doesn’t feel like it’s over yet in Australia, we’re now officially in Autumn and the cooler months mean flu season is fast approaching.
To prepare yourself and your family make sure you get your flu vaccination at the appropriate time.
The Department of Health suggests that April is the ideal time to get your flu vaccine, as it provides optimal protection against influenza (flu) for the first three to four months after vaccination, ensuring you are well-protected during the cold and flu season.
“The flu virus can change from year to year, and because immunity from the vaccination is not long lasting, an annual vaccination is recommended for the best protection against the different circulating strains each flu season,” Pharmacy 777 Managing Director Kim Brotherson said.
“The reason it’s so important, is not only to protect you and your loved ones, but also to achieve communal immunity, when a significant portion of the population is vaccinated there is a reduction in the overall spread of the virus.”
“By choosing to get vaccinated, you’re also helping to protect vulnerable people in the community, including infants under six months, immunocompromised people and those with severe allergies.”
“And with Pharmacists now being able to vaccinate under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), a yearly flu vaccination is funded and available through pharmacies for high-risk groups, including adults over 65, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and individuals with certain medical conditions.”
Quick Facts:
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Since the start of this year, over 47,000 cases of flu have been recorded in Australia – a 55% increase from 2024.1
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Number of flu vaccinations across Australia have dropped alarmingly, with an average decrease of 12.2% nationwide when comparing June 2024 to June 20232 , reported from National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS).
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In WA there is an increase of flu cases since the start of the year and remains above the seasonal threshold.3
With more than 80 locations across Australia, Pharmacy 777 offers extended opening hours, with dedicated extended flu clinic hours to help you find time to get your flu vaccination.
“Our pharmacists are here to serve the communities they live and work in, which means you can book a flu vaccination online, or walk in after work at a time that suits you,” Kim added.
“The flu is more than just a bad cold; it can be life-threatening. Annual vaccination is the simplest and most effective way to reduce the spread of influenza, protect vulnerable populations, and ensure you stay healthy throughout the season. It also lowers the chances of having serious complications if you do catch the flu.”
Getting vaccinated is not just about protecting yourself— it protects your family, colleagues, and the broader community. Visit your local Pharmacy 777 today and make flu vaccination a priority for you and your family.
Together, we can stop the spread… flu won’t wait, why should you?
If you’re an HBF member in WA, you might be eligible for a fully covered* flu vaccination.
*HBF Members must be over 5 years old and be covered for Healthy Living Programs on their Extras cover to be eligible to claim this benefit. Benefits payable once per calendar year. Waiting periods and limits apply. Benefits payable to standard egg-based flu vaccination only. Service must be delivered by an approved, participating Pharmacy 777 in WA. Other criteria, terms and conditions apply.