Are you prepared for winter?
As Australia continues to fight the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, this flu season it is more important than ever to ensure you get your flu shot. Hospitals and primary healthcare services are under immense strain, and we cannot afford to compound the effect that simultaneous flu and COVID-19 hospitalisations might have on the community.
While there has been talk recently regarding a lack of stock availability for flu vaccines around the country, the Pharmacy Guild Australia, Queensland, wants to advise that the stock is available and should be available in local pharmacies over the coming few weeks.
What flu shots are available from your pharmacy?
Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Queenslanders may qualify for a free flu shot from their local community pharmacist or local GP. Find out if your local pharmacy can administer a free flu shot using the table below.
| Demographic | Can be administered by local pharmacy | Can be administered by general practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Children (under 10 years) | No | Yes |
| Children and adolescents (10 to 19 years) | Yes | Yes |
| Adults (above 19 years) | Yes | Yes |
| Medically at-risk individuals | Yes | Yes |
| Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people | Yes** | Yes |
**individual assessment required by your pharmacist, as you may be eligible for your flu vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP)
Again, we would like to stress the importance of ensuring that your immunisations are up-to-date so that we can help fight against what could be a devastating few months otherwise.
Please note, there has been a lot of misinformation circulating around social media that implies a flu shot carries with it an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland, can confirm that there is no scientific or peer-reviewed evidence that suggests immunisations against influenza increase the likelihood of contracting COVID-19.
Other ways your community pharmacy can assist.
Did you know your community pharmacy does more than just dispense medication? Community Pharmacies are local health hubs and continue to expand the range of patient services. Visit www.findapharmacy.com.au and read through the range of services community pharmacies offer to see how your pharmacy could help you and your family live a healthier life!
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Page last updated on: 04 July 2022