The Coalition Government will provide two new ground-breaking flu vaccines to locals aged 65 years and over – free of charge.
Federal Member for Wright Scott Buchholz said this was in direct response to last year’s horrific flu season, which had a devastating impact around the world, and was aimed squarely at saving lives.
“The two new vaccines Fluad® and Fluzone High Dose® have been fast tracked to specifically provide increased protection to older Australians and ensure lives are saved,” Mr Buchholz said.
“These new three strain vaccines work in over 65s by generating a strong immune response and are more effective for this age group in protecting against influenza.”
Both Fluad® and Fluzone High Dose® will be available from April in local general practices and pharmacies – free of charge to those over 65s through the National Immunisation Program.
Mr Buchholz said despite the recent heat, winter was coming and urged older locals to be prepared.
“We must continue to do what we can to protect those Australians who are most at risk this flu season,” Mr Buchholz said.
“More than 90 per cent of the 1,100 flu related deaths in 2017 were people aged over 65 years of age.”
“Vaccination is the most important measure for preventing the dreaded sore throat and sniffly nose this winter so I encourage all older locals to consider getting the jab to fight the flu this year.”
