Queenslanders are being urged to take advantage of the free flu vaccination program after a great response since it began three weeks ago.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk today called on those yet to be vaccinated against the flu to join the 1.6 million other Queenslanders in doing their bit to protect themselves and others before the free program expires on the 30th of June.
The Premier said the free flu vaccination program had contributed to lifting vaccination rates by an average of almost 10 per cent statewide, particularly among those at increased risk of serious health complications from influenza.
“More than 460,000 people have received the jab since the program launched, ensuring approximately a third of all eligible Queenslanders are vaccinated,” the Premier said.
“It’s a great response, and I’m very grateful that so many people have done the right thing for themselves and their families.
“We took this unprecedented step because Influenza A can be very dangerous for old and young, and because vaccine rates and immunity levels were low.
“It’s obviously struck a chord with the community, and with other states following our lead.
“It is great to see that those aged 65 years and over have increased their vaccination coverage to 73 per cent – an increase of 13 per cent since the program began.
“Vaccination rates for the those aged five to 65 has increased by 8 per cent since May 24, ensuring a quarter of this population is now covered.
“While these results are encouraging, it would be great to see an increase in the number of children aged six months to five years receiving the jab, given the vaccination rate is currently 14 per cent.
“We know the very young and the elderly are disproportionately affected by influenza, meaning it is critical they are vaccinated.”
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said she was anticipating a rush of people receiving the vaccine as the June 30 deadline approached.
“Queensland has administered an additional 178,000 vaccinations compared to this time last year, which demonstrates many Queenslanders are committed to reducing the severity of this flu season,” she said.
“No eligible Queenslander should choose to be unvaccinated, especially when the flu vaccine is available for free and is the safest and most effective way to limit the spread of influenza
The flu vaccine is recommended annually for anyone over 6 months of age.
