Goldfields residents urged to roll up for the flu vaccine

Goldfields residents are being urged to roll up once again – this time for their flu shot as influenza cases increase across the region.

According to Goldfields Public Health Physician Dr Charles Douglas, after two years of low influenza (flu) rates because of State’s closed border, it is important to protect the community’s most vulnerable. 

“Seasonal influenza is a common and highly contagious virus which can cause serious illness,” Dr Douglas said.

"Sometimes the seriousness of influenza is downplayed as just being the flu, but particularly with our most vulnerable, influenza is a serious and potentially life-threatening virus.”

Dr Douglas said vaccination was the safest and best protection against the flu and reducing its spread.

“We’ve extended our free flu jab program for another month so now is the time to protect yourself and your loved ones,” he added.

“People who have had their COVID-19 vaccination also need to have the flu shot this year to be fully protected.”

WA Country Health Service (WACHS) is also reminding people in the Goldfields to keep up the good habits they used throughout the COVID-19 pandemic – including physical distancing, face masks and hand hygiene.

“The flu can spread easily from person to person through coughing or by touching contaminated surfaces then touching your mouth or nose,” Dr Douglas said. 

“People with flu-like symptoms should avoid passing it on to others by staying away from work, school or childcare until they feel better.”

WACHS has established community clinics across the Goldfields for both flu and COVID-19 vaccines. To find your nearest clinic visit rollup.wa.gov.au.

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

Aboriginal Medical Services, local pharmacists, remote clinics and GPs also provide flu vaccines.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the WACHS Goldfields Public Health Unit on (08) 9080 8200.