NQ locals urged to go see the 'Flu Fighters

Before legendary US rock band The Foo Fighters takes to the stage at Queensland Country Bank Stadium later this year, the Townsville Hospital and Health Service has encouraged locals to go to The ‘Flu Fighters first.

North Queensland locals have been urged to see a GP, pharmacist, community clinic, or other vaccination provider to get immunised as the state prepares for a busy influenza season.

In Queensland, there is a free ‘flu vaccination program for everyone aged six months and older.

Townsville Public Health Unit director Dr Steven Donohue said it was important the community take influenza seriously and get immunised.

“It’s times like these that getting yourself immunised as soon as possible gives you the best chance against getting influenza,” Dr Donohue said.

“This year to date, there’s already been more than 850 confirmed cases of influenza across the Townsville HHS region.

“This is more than double the rate for the same period last year.

“Getting vaccinated, and this isn’t just for influenza but many diseases, is the best defence against getting sick.

“On average, influenza is linked to about 3,500 deaths in Australia each year, most of those diagnosed much later, and leads to more than 18,000 hospitalisations.

“In Queensland, 73 per cent of people who were hospitalised for influenza were not vaccinated.”

Dr Donohue said influenza was more than just having a bad cold.

“Anyone who has had it will tell you how horrible it can be,” he said.

“This is not a minor illness. It’s a serious disease that circulates in our community, and we have already seen a significant number of cases this year.

“While most of us will be able to shake it off, people can still get seriously ill with it, potentially leading to severe complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, or worsening of underlying health conditions.

“Like all vaccines, the annual flu shot remains the single best defence we have against influenza, and we are encouraging everyone to go see a ‘Flu Fighter and get immunised.

“You can easily get it at eligible pharmacies or through your GP, and the vaccine is readily available across Townsville and north Queensland.” To find out more about influenza, visit the flu facts.