Health experts are urging families to act early and prioritise flu vaccination, warning school environments can accelerate influenza transmission if children remain unvaccinated.
Reportedly, “more than 26,940 flu cases have already been recorded in Australia this year”, ahead of the seasonal peak, prompting National Pharmacies to highlight a narrow window for optimal protection.
National Pharmacies Chief Pharmacist Bec Rogers says the last week of April and the first two weeks of May typically fall just ahead of the traditional spike in recorded flu cases, making it a critical window for vaccination for children aged 5–15, who were among the most effective spreaders of the virus due to low vaccination rates.
“With the influenza vaccine taking around two weeks to reach full effectiveness and providing its highest level of protection in the first few months, families who vaccinate in the term two sweet spot are typically covered through the peak period — when cases are highest — and into the point where infection rates begin to decline,” she says.
“Influenza is a virus that changes every year, which is why annual vaccination is critical.
“Getting immunised before the season peaks gives families the best chance of protection against the strains currently circulating.
“This year’s influenza vaccine has been updated to include an influenza A strain designed to protect against newer variants — including those referred to as Super-K.”
National Pharmacies CEO Mark Smith says the community pharmacy group had decided to offer all members free flu vaccinations this year following a record flu season and a resurgent Super-K variant.
“Our decision to offer free flu vaccinations is a practical step to help protect community health and remove cost barriers as we know Australian households, families in particular, are facing unprecedented economic pressures that are completely out of their control,” he says.
