Free influenza vaccines extended for an extra month after figures confirm WA facing horror flu season

Free influenza vaccines are being extended for an extra month, as the latest figures confirm fears that WA is facing a horror flu season.

More than 1500 people have needed hospital treatment out of 8708 recorded infections, which is 88 per cent higher than the five-year average.

Four deaths have been recorded.

“If you haven’t rolled up your sleeve yet, it’s not too late,” Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton said.

“By getting your free flu vaccination, you’re keeping yourself, your loved ones and the wider community safe.

“Extending the free flu vaccination program means more people can stay well, avoid hospitalisation and reduce the spread of illness in our community.”

Ms Winton knows from experience. She’s been absent from Parliament this week, and working from home, after herself falling ill with the flu.

More than 763,000 West Australians have been vaccinated this year, including Ms Winton, but the State’s jab rates are lagging other States.

Only 12.4 per cent of children aged 5-11 have been vaccinated.

Children under 10 have accounted for 18 per cent of the 1579 flu-related hospital admissions this year, while adults aged 65 and over made up 37 per cent.

Doctors say the flu vaccine isn’t a guarantee you won’t be struck down but, according to NSW Health data, a vaccinated person is 40-60 per cent less likely to require a doctor or hospital visit.

Health Minister Meredith Hammat issued a plea for the community to “act now” to ease pressure on hospitals that have to deal with the influx.

“We’re extending this program so even more Western Australians can take advantage of free flu vaccinations this winter,” she said.

“Influenza is not just a bad cold. It can lead to severe illness and hospitalisation, particularly for young children, older adults and people with underlying conditions.

“I encourage everyone who hasn’t had their flu shot to book in today and do their part to keep themselves and the community safe.”

The flu vaccine will be free until the end of July, for all West Australians aged six months and over.