As the Queensland Premier announced yesterday, the Queensland Government is providing free influenza vaccinations from this Saturday 22 July. General Practices and Pharmacies will be able to offer free flu vaccination for all age groups from 22 July to 31 August.
 
The Queensland Government is making influenza vaccinations more accessible, given an increase in flu cases, and Queensland’s low rates of vaccination compared with other States and Territories.
 
The Chief Health Officer, Dr John Gerrard indicated his concern about the increase in cases of the influenza B strain. He stated that Influenza B is now the dominant strain and is causing severe illness in otherwise healthy Queenslanders. “Influenza B is known to be associated with more severe disease in children”. 
 
WQPHN’s Partners and Commissioned Service Providers are encouraged to assist in spreading the message for people to get vaccinated. It is particularly important for children, those over 65 years, vulnerable Queenslanders, and pregnant women to be vaccinated.
 
Please also note that that the Minister for Health, Shannon Fentiman also confirmed that anyone that already has a Flu Vaccination booked before this Saturday will also receive it for free or be reimbursed. 

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