Queensland health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against the flu as experts predict a harsh flu season. Free flu shots are still available to everyone over six months old.
Queensland residents are being encouraged to overcome vaccine fatigue and accept free flu shots as experts predict a severe flu season . Health Minister Tim Nicholls announced that free flu vaccinations are still available to anyone over six months old, reversing an earlier statement that he would end the three-year campaign at the end of 2024. The state government will continue offering free vaccines due to predictions of a dangerous flu season .
Paul Van Buynder, a professor of medicine at Griffith University, says these concerns stem from the global behavior of the flu virus. He notes that influenza rates are drastically increasing in the United States and parts of the Northern Hemisphere, suggesting a severe flu season in those areas and a likely increase in flu cases in Australia next year. Health Minister Tim Nicholls initially hesitated to commit to continuing the free flu scheme, introduced by former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk in 2022, saying he needed time to assess its effectiveness. He emphasized the importance of flu vaccination, noting that it's the most common vaccine-preventable disease and can cause severe illness. He also highlighted the increase in influenza hospitalizations and notifications last year and the ongoing cost of living crisis, making free access to flu shots crucial. Data shows a significant drop in individuals taking advantage of free flu vaccinations over the past three seasons, with only 36% participation last year, well below the ideal target of 85%. Chris Owen, president of the Queensland branch of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, explains the impact of this decision on the health system
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