The NSW Government is today launching its official winter vaccines campaign ahead of the peak respiratory virus season this winter.
International experience indicates the possibility of a higher than usual influenza activity season this year.
“We are urging people across NSW to top up their yearly vaccinations ahead of the worst of the winter flu season.” said Acting Premier of New South Wales Prue Car.
“Whether you’re a member of a vulnerable group, or you want to protect your family members from sickness, it’s important to stay up to date with your vaccinations.”
To ensure people have the essential services they rely on, the Minns Labor Government has worked to get the supply of vaccines out to doctors and pharmacists.
Vaccination rates for vulnerable groups have been declining nationally as well as globally.
In NSW, the influenza vaccine rate for six-month to five-year-olds has declined from 28.3 per cent in 2023 to 25 per cent in 2024, and for over 65s it was down from 62 per cent in 2023 to 60 per cent in 2024.
Influenza vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for:
- Children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
- People aged 65 years and older
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and olde
- Pregnant women
- Those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, severe asthma, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease.
People can access flu vaccinations through their pharmacist or local GP.
Last month, the NSW Government announced an investment of $16.6 million to ensure all newborns in NSW can be protected from serious illness from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
It means newborns can either receive free protection from RSV through maternal vaccination or immunisation before they leave the hospital.
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