Queenslanders will be capable to get a free flu shot from this weekend to assist battle a surge in infections.
“We’re making flu vaccinations FREE for all Queenslanders,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk introduced on social media on Monday afternoon.
“Influenza is highly infectious and can be deadly — and vaccination rates in Queensland need to improve,” she stated in a publish on each her Twitter and Facebook pages.
“From 22 July to 31 August, pharmacies and GPs will offer free vaccinations. Please get vaccinated.”
The announcement follows the demise of 11-year-old Noosa woman Emma Schwab with influenza B on July 6.
Queensland chief well being officer Dr John Gerrard final week stated the B pressure has the potential to trigger “severe illness” in younger individuals.
“We are very concerned about the increase in influenza B cases and the high rate of unvaccinated patients, particularly with school resuming,” Dr Gerrard stated.
“We experienced an influenza A wave leading into winter, but influenza B has taken over as the dominant strain in July.
“There have been three times more hospital admissions for influenza B than influenza A in children aged less than five years.”
Queensland authorities flu monitoring information exhibits 15,039 instances on influenza B have been detected within the state for the yr to July 9.
“If you have an existing booking for this week, your pharmacist or GP will provide the vaccine for free or you will be reimbursed,” Ms Palaszczuk stated.
“Queenslanders are encouraged to book online.
“We know cost of living is a real concern right now, and this will fill the gap for people who don’t qualify for a free vaccination under the federally-run national immunisation program.”
Source: www.news.com.au
