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Flu shots at your Geelong Medical Centre
Winter is coming!!
In preparation for the cold months ahead, here at Health e Medical Centre we are commencing ‘Flu Clinics’ to immunise against the Influenza virus.
Quick visit ‘Flu Clinic’ appointments will be available so you can see a GP for your influenza vaccination easily.
Flu clinics are open for bookings at Health e Medical Centre now, with immunisations beginning in April.
Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious viral infection that is responsible for major outbreaks of respiratory illness around the world, usually in the winter months. Unlike the common cold, influenza can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications such as pneumonia and bronchitis, which often require hospitalisation.
This year, the government have supplied a ‘quadrivalent’ vaccine, which means it will provide immunisation against 4 common strains of the influenza virus from around the world.
There is a ‘trivalent’ (3 strains) vaccine available, however it is not the preferred or recommended vaccine against influenza in 2016.
For those who meet the eligibility criteria, the vaccine will be FREE.
For those who do not qualify it is only $18. Money well spent!
The vaccine will be administered by a GP.
Who?
The flu virus is especially dangerous for elderly people, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and very young children, as well as for people with underlying medical conditions. These people are eligible for a free influenza vaccine.
Otherwise, all members of the community are recommended to receive the flu vaccine if they “desire to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with influenza” – Australian Immunisation Handbook 10th Ed.
Immunisation of healthy adults against influenza is particularly important for:
- All healthcare providers including administration staff.
- Staff or volunteers in nursing homes
- Household contacts to people who are high risk for influenza sickness or death
- Staff working in childhood education and care
Why?
Influenza spreads from person to person through the air by coughing or sneezing, or by direct contact with the virus on hard surfaces or people’s hands. The flu usually differs from a cold as symptoms develop suddenly, and can lead to complications such as chest infections and pneumonia – particularly among the elderly and young children.
When?
Flu clinics are open for bookings at Health e Medical Centre now, with immunisations beginning in April.
Call now and book your ‘flu clinic’ appointment with a GP
If you have any questions, our Immunisation Nurses are happy to talk to you.
Where?
Health e Medical Centre, 258 Shannon Ave, Geelong West. Ph. 5223 9999