High risk groups encouraged to get flu jab

Hunter New England Health is reminding the community to get vaccinated against influenza, particularly those considered at highest risk of developing complications as a result of the illness.

Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim said the first cases of influenza are now being recorded in the region, heralding the arrival of the influenza season. 

A number of people from high risk groups have been admitted to hospital with confirmed influenza. 

This is a timely reminder for people to get their influenza vaccination before the influenza season hits in earnest,¨ said Dr Durrheim.

It is particularly important for people at high risk of developing life-threatening complications as a result of catching influenza.

These groups include people older than 65, people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma and renal disease, all Aboriginal people over 15 years of age and pregnant women.¨

Since H1N1 influenza emerged in 2009, the flu has been particularly severe among Aboriginal people and pregnant women,¨ said Dr Durrheim.

It is also important for people living in aged care facilities to be immunised against the flu. 

The virus is highly contagious so anyone who cares for or visits people in aged care facilities should also be immunised," Dr Durrheim said.

Dr Durrheim said more than 10 per cent of the community could catch influenza each year.

Influenza is highly infectious in the first five days so if you suspect you or a family may have influenza, you can reduce the spread of infection by not going to work or school,¨ Dr Durrheim said.

• There are a few simple steps that can help prevent transmission of influenza including:
•  Use a tissue to cover the nose when sneezing and mouth when coughing,
• Dispose of the contaminated tissue into a waste bin after use,
• Wash hands with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.

Influenza Fast Facts

• symptoms may include fever and shivering, cough, headache, muscle aches and sore throat,
• the illness usually lasts seven to 10 days.
•  the best way to prevent illness is to see your GP for a flu shot
• the community can help track flu by logging onto www.flutracking.net

Contact: Sharna McCarthy

Phone: 49214501