Lung Foundation Australia is reminding First Nations communities to protect themselves against the flu this winter by getting a free flu shot now.
Lung Foundation Australia Specialist Chief Nurse Nicole Parkinson said it was important not to be complacent about how dangerous the flu could be.
“Getting the flu shot helps to keep you healthy and strong and can protect you and your community from severe illness and hospitalisation,” Ms Parkinson said.
“If you are pregnant, the flu vaccine will also protect your baby against the flu when it is born.”
“Lung Foundation Australia are reminding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of all ages to get their free flu shot now so they are better protected by the time cold and flu season ramps up.”
Ms Parkinson also said pneumonia brings a higher risk of hospital admittance, highlighting that the pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for First Nations people aged 50 years and over.
This vaccine is also recommended for people under the age of 50 who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk of getting pneumonia, including people living with specific types of chronic lung disease.
“If you’re a First Nations person aged 50 or over, or with a chronic lung condition, please also talk to your GP or Aboriginal medical service about the receiving the free pneumococcal vaccine,” she said.
“Vaccinations, good hand hygiene and keeping yourself at home if you are under the weather are key to staying out of hospital and keeping loved ones well this flu season.”
Importantly, if you meet the above criteria and are asked to pay for the flu or pneumococcal vaccine, please remind your doctor, nurse, or reception staff that you identify as a person from a First Nations community.
For more information go to https://lungfoundation.com.au/protect-your-mob/
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For media enquiries please contact:
Lani Hepple
0403 831 583
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