People in WA who have not been vaccinated against influenza are being urged to act before the peak of the 2018 flu season hits.
Health Minister Roger Cook said emergency departments were put under additional pressure every year during the peak flu season.
“With the onset of colder weather we expect to see an increase in influenza cases, this year’s flu season is expected to peak in August so there’s still time to get vaccinated,” he said.
“Given the seriousness of the disease, it is important that people ensure they get the flu vaccine.”
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Mr Cook said even young and health people needed to get vaccinated to protect others in the community who were at risk of flu complications.
“WA has now received additional vaccine stock from the Commonwealth, so if you have not yet been vaccinated, now is the time to do it,” he said.
While most recover in several days from influenza some patients develop complications, resulting in hospitalisation and even death.
Flu complications can cause pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissues, and multi-organ failure.
Young children, the elderly and those with certain medical conditions are most at rick.
The flu vaccine is available free through immunisation providers for eligible groups including young children, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women, people aged 65 years and over and those with chronic medical conditions.
Those not eligible for the free vaccine can get it through their doctor or at a participating chemist.