21 July 2011
Although the NT, unlike most other parts of Australia, has not yet experienced a rapid rise in cases of seasonal influenza, now is the time to make sure you are vaccinated with the 2011 influenza vaccine.
Centre for Disease Control Director Dr Vicki Krause said, "With so much flu currently circulating in the rest of the country it is just a matter of time until it arrives in the Territory. Now is the time to maximise your chances of avoiding the flu by getting vaccinated."
Dr Krause said it takes two weeks for individuals to produce an adequate or protective immune response after getting their flu injection.
"The 2011 flu vaccine is still available in the NT, and we are urging everyone to get a vaccination as soon as possible.
"The advice to be vaccinated applies particularly to people whose health status places them at increased risk of serious complications of influenza.
"The main at-risk groups include pregnant women, Aboriginal people over 15 years of age, anyone over-65 years, and anyone over 6 months with chronic medical conditions.
"It is important to note that the seasonal flu vaccine is safe for women in any trimester of their pregnancy," Dr Vicki Krause added.
Others at-risk include people with medical conditions such as cardiac disease, chronic respiratory conditions, chronic illnesses that required medical follow-up or hospitalisation within the past year, ongoing neurological conditions, people with impaired immunity and children on long-term aspirin therapy."
"We urge everyone, especially people at risk of flu complications, to arrange to get a vaccination from their GP practice or at a Community Care Centre. People who were vaccinated against flu in 2010 should get this year's flu vaccine now to ensure they are protected.
"Personal hygiene measures are also important. These include handwashing with soap or gel, and covering up with a tissue or even your hand when coughing or sneezing.
"Both vaccination and good hygiene can reduce the spread of flu in the community at very low cost.
"Flu vaccination helps protect ourselves and others. Influenza is not like getting a common cold. It can be very debilitating and result in considerable time off work, missing school or hospitalisation."
For influenza vaccine information go to www.health.nt.gov.au/Flu/
Media contact: Robin Osborne, (08) 8999 2886 or 0488 692 781
