Did you know that one in 3 Australians has a lung disease? It is also the second leading cause of death in Australia with 45 loved ones lost to lung disease and lung cancer every day.
Protect yourself and your mob from viruses like the flu and pneumonia by:
- staying up to date with all your vaccinations
- practising good hygiene
- staying home if you’re unwell.
Lung Foundation Australia
Lung Foundation Australia has been Australia’s leading lung health body since 1990. It is committed to improving the lives of Australians living with or impacted by lung disease and lung cancer. Lung Foundation Australia funds life-saving research and champions programs and services that help Australians with lung disease and lung cancer to live their best life.
The Lung Foundation Australia’s website has information on ways to best protect your mob from lung disease. You’ll find resources, information and updated research to help you make small changes in your daily life to keep you healthy and safe.
Influenza (the flu)
Getting a flu vaccine each year protects you from the flu. It’s FREE for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a type of viral infection that can cause mild to severe illness in some people. The virus spreads from person to person by tiny droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at greater risk of getting a really bad case of the flu and having to go to hospital.
Even if you are healthy, you can experience lasting health complications from the flu. Getting the flu vaccine not only protects you, it also protects your mob.
Check out the influenza vaccination information and resources and watch this video on giving flu the boot!
Pneumonia
Viruses, bacteria, or fungi can cause pneumonia, a type of lung infection. Pneumococcal pneumonia is the most common type of bacterial pneumonia. The older you are, the higher the risk of getting pneumococcal pneumonia and certain chronic conditions, including lung disease.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to be admitted to hospital for pneumonia than non-Indigenous Australians.
What can you do?
These easy steps can help to reduce the spread of viruses such as the flu, COVID-19, and even the common cold. Making these a part of your day-to-day life will help keep you and your mob healthy and safe.
Hand hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Where this isn’t possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser gel. Sneeze into your elbow to keep your hands clean as well.
Keep your distance: If you’re experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms, stay at home and avoid close contact with other people. This helps to prevent other people from getting sick. The reverse also applies – avoid close contact with those who may be sick to keep yourself healthy!
Face masks: Wear a mask if you’re experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms. This can help to reduce the spread of bugs and viruses – particularly when it’s difficult to physically distance, such as on public transport or at busy shopping centres.
Learn more about protecting your mob on the Lung Foundation Australia website.
