Dr Chant Urges Increase in Flu Vaccine Uptake to Improve Immunisation Rates

New South Wales (NSW) Health is advising residents to get the flu vaccine as there are concerns that not enough people are getting vaccinated.

Chief Health Officer Dr. Kerry Chant is recommending that those over 65 book their free vaccine now as influenza levels are on the rise.

Dr. Chant expects an increase in influenza cases in the coming weeks and is urging people to get vaccinated if they haven’t already.

She expressed concern over the low immunization rates, particularly among those over 65, who are at a higher risk of severe illness.

The latest NSW Health Respiratory Surveillance Report released on May 30 shows a rapid increase in influenza activity in NSW, along with COVID-19 transmission.

The report highlights higher rates of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza in younger age groups, with older individuals having higher rates of COVID notifications. Pertussis and pneumonia rates are unexpectedly high in school-aged children.

Residents in NSW are advised to wear masks when necessary and keep up with recommended vaccinations if feeling unwell.

Infectious diseases pediatrician Dr. Phil Britton at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network has observed a rise in influenza notifications across all age groups, especially in young children aged three to four years.

Government-funded vaccines are available for individuals over 65, children aged six months to five years, and Aboriginal Australians over 6, as well as those with serious health conditions.

High Risk Health Workers Must Get the Flu Vaccine

High-risk staff at NSW Health are required to get the influenza vaccine to comply with work regulations, as per a recent policy directive.

These staff members must also ensure they are vaccinated against other diseases, as listed in the policy directive.

While COVID-19 vaccine mandates have been lifted for health workers and students in the state, influenza vaccination remains mandatory for high-risk staff.

$630 Million Allocated for Vaccines in Federal Budget

The federal government announced $631.1 million over four years to support ongoing access to vaccines, including funding for the national COVID-19 vaccine program.