As the weather starts to cool down, Highlanders are being reminded that the best defence against the flu is to be vaccinated ahead of winter.
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Dr Naru Pal, director of Public Health for South Western Sydney Local Health District, has said that there have been more than 9300 recorded flu cases this year, due in part to residents returning from colder climates overseas after the Christmas/New Year holidays.
In the Wingecarribee region alone there have been 20 recorded flu cases so far this year, compared to 19 during the same period in 2018.
According to Dr Pal, there are two strains of influenza A virus are causing most of the infections in NSW so far this year, similar to the strains that circulated in 2018.
Pharmacist Dharmita Maharaj from Amcal Pharmacy in Bowral has noticed an increase in people asking for the flu vaccination in the 10 years she has been working there.
"There's been a big increase for flu vaccinations because there's so much awareness for it now," she said.
"We vaccinate against all four strains of the flue, as well as DPT (diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus) and rubella, measles and mumps.
"People can come here for vaccinations, instead of waiting at the doctors and there are no appointments required or they can use the booking tool online."
Dharmita also recommends a healthy diet, vitamin c, echinacea and regular hand washing in addition to the flu vaccination to reduce the chances of getting sick.
Those who are sick are advised to stay home to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria.
Under the national program, free flu shots are provided for pregnant women, people aged 65 years and over, all Aboriginal people and other people with medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.
The NSW Government also provides free flu shots for all children aged from six months to under five years of age. People who are not eligible for free vaccines can get their jabs from their local GP or pharmacist.
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Vera Demertzis
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
