Free flu jab program extended for country WA

Country communities can keep accessing free flu jabs until the end of July.

All country Western Australians are eligible to walk into State-run vaccination clinics for a free vaccine, and bookings are available at participating pharmacies, GPs and Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS).

Children under five years of age can attend their local community health service for a flu vaccine.

After two years of low influenza rates because of the State’s closed border, immunity is low and country communities need to do all they can to keep safe.

Seasonal influenza is a common and highly contagious virus which can cause serious illness and potentially life-threatening outcomes for our most vulnerable.

Symptoms can range from typical headaches, fever, body aches and a cough to more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a rash, chest pain and vomiting.

While the flu can circulate all year round, country communities are at most risk in the colder months between April and October.

The best and most effective way to keep yourselves and your community safe is by getting vaccinated every year.

You also don’t need to wait until after your COVID-19 booster shot to get your flu jab – they can now be administered at the same time.

WA Country health Service is also reminding rural and regional WA to keep up the good habits they developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including physical distancing, face masks and hand hygiene.

More information and where to get the vaccine can be found at https://onaroll.wa.gov.au.