GPs and pharmacists key to raising flu awareness

New data reveals that many people underestimate the seriousness of the flu, while also revealing that GPs and pharmacists are go-to healthcare professionals when it comes to raising awareness about the seriousness of the flu and discussing options around flu vaccinations.

The data from the Australian Attitudes to Influenza Index was commissioned by Australian vaccine company CSL Seqirus and shows that 33% of adults say that the flu is only somewhat serious, while 14% say it’s not very, or not at all serious. 

The data also reveals that 46% of Australians would like their GP or pharmacist to discuss flu vaccines with them to help them better understand their options. 

This complacency towards the seriousness of the flu is concerning.

“Underestimating the seriousness of flu may lead to lower vaccination rates and may place a significant burden on the public health system,” says Professor Robert Booy, a leading paediatrician and infectious disease expert. 

“People need to remember that we’ve had some bad flu seasons in Australia, with modelling data from 2010-2019 estimating that we averaged nearly 2800 annual flu-related all-cause deaths, with more than 6400 estimated deaths in 2017 and over 5200 in 2019.

“Last year, we also saw younger populations make up a higher proportion of notifications compared to previous years, so it’s important we have high vaccination rates across all age groups. 

“We’re already seeing higher rates of influenza compared to this time last year. It is almost impossible to predict when the flu season will peak, so it’s important that GPs and pharmacists start talking to patients early about their choices for prevention,” he says. 

The survey asked 1017 people aged 18 years and over about their attitudes to flu.

The results show that 70% trust their healthcare professionals to provide information on the flu, and that GPs and pharmacists are considered the top source of encouragement for vaccination, with 68% of Australian adults who intend to get the influenza vaccine prepared to pay extra if a specific type of vaccine was recommended by their GP or pharmacist.  

“GPs and pharmacists are really helping to increase awareness of flu – however, according to this research, we know that nearly 60% of Australians are still not aware of what flu vaccine options are available to them and that a recommendation from a recognised vaccination provider is one of the strongest predictors of uptake,” says Dr Julianne Bayliss, Medical Director — Vaccines and Biosecurity, ANZ, CSL Seqirus. 

“As the number of lab-confirmed flu cases grows, it’s important to focus on public health efforts to prevent and reduce serious outbreaks.

“Talking with patients about flu prevention, including vaccination, helps to reduce the burden and protect high-risk communities, while also minimising the impact on workplace absenteeism and our healthcare system,” she says.