Lung Foundation Australia is urging Australians, particularly those living with lung disease and other chronic conditions, to prioritise vaccination this World Immunisation Week (24-30 April).
People with lung disease are at significantly higher risk of serious complications from respiratory infections, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal pneumonia and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). For these individuals, vaccination is a critical safe guide against severe illness, hospitalisation and long-term health impacts.
Lung Foundation Australia is also expanding its campaign this year to reach more communities, with social media resources being translated into languages other than English. The initiative responds to research from the Grattan Institute, which shows lower vaccination rates among people who speak a language other than English at home and have limited English proficiency.
Lung Foundation Australia CEO Mark Brooke said vaccination remains one of the most important tools in protecting people with lung disease.
“For people living with lung conditions, vaccination is not just recommended, it is essential,” Mr Brooke said.
“Respiratory infections like influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal, and RSV, can have serious and sometimes life-threatening consequences for those with compromised lung health.”
Mr Brooke said improving access to clear, culturally appropriate information is key to ensuring no one is left behind.
“We know that equitable access to trusted information can make a real difference to vaccination uptake and health outcomes,” he said.
“We are committed to ensuring all Australians understand the importance of vaccination and can access the information they need to protect themselves and their families.”
For Oxley mother of four Sarah Waters, the risks are all too real.
Living with asthma and COPD, Sarah was hospitalised last year after developing RSV and pneumonia, following what she initially thought was a mild illness.
“It was awful, I could barely get out of bed,” she said.
“It was an extremely serious experience, and I can honestly say I have never felt so unwell in my life.”
“The severity of the illness was compounded by excessive coughing, which led to a fractured rib and rib cartilage damage, significantly impacting my recovery and daily functioning.”
The infection left her unable to work for weeks while recovering on antibiotics.
Earlier, Sarah also contracted influenza in 2024 but says being vaccinated reduced the severity of her illness and likely kept her out of hospital.
Having never missed a flu shot, she is urging others, particularly those with lung conditions, to prioritise vaccination.
“I know how important it is to be vaccinated. It could save your life,” she said.
Lung Foundation Australia encourages all Australians, especially those with lung disease or chronic conditions, to speak with their healthcare professional about recommended vaccinations.
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