Time to book flu shots

RIVERINA residents are being urged to book in for a flu vaccine, particularly if they fall into a high-risk group.
People aged over 65, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and pregnant women are most at risk from the flu, along with those who have other medical conditions.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District Director of Public Health, Tracey Oakman, said the vaccine was an important tool to help people stay healthy in the cooler months.
“About 2800 Australians die every year, either directly from the seasonal flu, complications due to the flu, or pneumonia,” she said.
“Flu vaccinations are the single most effective way of helping fight the spread of flu in the community.”
People in high risk groups are eligible for free vaccinations, which are offered to the elderly, pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 15 years.
The vaccine is recommended for everyone over six months of age.
People with medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease, chronic lung conditions, impaired immunity or diabetes are more likely to experience complications from the flu.