Territorians aged ten years and over are being urged to get vaccinated against H1N1 Pandemic Influenza (swine flu) in the lead up to the holiday season.
The pandemic influenza vaccine is available from urban vaccination clinics, remote health centres, Aboriginal Medical Services and most GP practices.
And to make it easier to get the free vaccine, the Department of Health and Families has vaccination clinics in all urban centres.
"This is the perfect time to get the vaccine before the holidays, when lots of Territorians travel interstate and overseas and when there will be many visitors to the NT," said Dr Barbara Paterson, NT Chief Health Officer.
"Over the Christmas-New Year break people gather with friends and family, so there's a heightened risk of catching or spreading the disease. Swine flu is one thing you don't want to give or receive during the holidays.
"Another good reason to get vaccinated now is that we're still seeing cases in the Territory, and there may be a second wave. The northern hemisphere is entering winter and reports indicate that H1N1 pandemic activity there is high. This tells us it is highly likely to cause further health concerns in the NT," added Dr Paterson.
People in high risk groups are reminded that they should receive the vaccine if they have not already done so. People in these groups include pregnant women, Aboriginal people, and people with chronic diseases.
Those in close contact with people in high risk groups and parents and carers of children under six months are also being encouraged to receive the vaccine.
"The pandemic flu vaccine is safe, effective, and side effects are generally mild. It is not a live vaccine and so it cannot cause influenza. I urge you to get it now before the start of the holidays," said Dr Paterson.
Further information at: www.swinefluvax.nt.gov.au
Swine flu vaccination clinics
Darwin and Palmerston: Monday to Friday. For an appointment call Casuarina Community Care Centre on 8922 7301 or Palmerston Community Care Centre on 8999 3344.
Alice Springs: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 4.30 pm at Alice Springs Hospital.
Contact the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) Alice Springs on 8951 9566 for an appointment.
Katherine: At the Community Health Centre, Government Building, 1st Street.
Call 8973 8570 for an appointment.
Tennant Creek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 3.00 and 4.30 pm at the Tennant Creek General Practice.
Call 8962 2622 for an appointment.
Nhulunbuy: At CDC Nhulunbuy. Call 8987 0357 for an appointment.
Date issued: 26 November
