Fiona Andrews (Occupational Health and Safety Nurse) gives Karen Murphy (Exective Director of Medical Services) her influenza vaccine.
Camera IconFiona Andrews (Occupational Health and Safety Nurse) gives Karen Murphy (Exective Director of Medical Services) her influenza vaccine. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital staff get vaccinated for flu season

Jessica WarrinerWestern Suburbs Weekly

SIR Charles Gairdner Hospital (SCGH) staff were lining up to be flu fighters today .

Staff received their jabs to protect both patients and themselves during the impending flu season.

National Influenza Centre Director and clinical microbiologist/virologist David Smith said the staff shots would help protect those who were most vulnerable, including people 65 and over and those with chronic illnesses.

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“Influenza affects up to 30 per cent of the population each season; in Australia, there will be on average 2000 to 3000 deaths because of influenza, and many more will end up in hospital,” he said.

“Our flu season in Western Australia is usually in July and August; if you get the vaccine too early, the protection is beginning to wane. May is a good time.”

Flu shots are available now at GPs and some pharmacies, with people over 65, pregnant women, Aboriginal individuals, children aged six months to five years, and people with conditions that place them at risk of influenza complications eligible for government-funded vaccines.

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