Each year in Australia, influenza causes an estimated 3,000 deaths in older people. However, it’s not just older people who are affected by the flu; rates of flu injection are highest among young children. Children under the age of 5 are less likely to show symptoms of the flu (fever and cough) so you may not know that your child has contracted the infection. Most children cope well with the flu but are vulnerable to new strains of the flu (Swine Flu) due to their undeveloped immune systems. The greatest concern for doctors and patients is the danger, not just of the flu itself, but severe complications such as pneumonia and the effect of influenza on existing medical conditions. Everyone 65 years or older should have the flu vaccine. As well, at any age, you should be vaccinated if you have ongoing illness such as diabetes, kidney disease, asthma, heart or circulation problems, or compromised immunity diseases.
Please visit your local Pharmacy for more information about the flu vaccine – be prepared for the upcoming cold months.