As Melbourne prepares for its icy winter embrace, Northern Health is calling on all staff, volunteers and community members to roll up their sleeves– literally– and protect themselves by receiving the 2025 influenza vaccine.
In line with Department of Health advice, flu vaccines are recommended from mid-April to offer protection during the peak flu season, which strikes hardest between June and September.
The flu vaccine is recommended for people aged six months and over.
The vaccine is also provided free to people most at risk of complications from influenza, including children aged six months to less than five years, pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over, people aged 65 years and over, and people aged six months and over with certain medical conditions.
“Getting the influenza vaccine this year remains important to ensure our patients and staff are kept safe,” North Health infection prevention and surveillance manager Barsha Baral said.
“By being vaccinated, healthcare workers can help protect patients in their care by decreasing exposure to the virus.”
Unlike the common cold, the flu is highly contagious and potentially life- threatening, with symptoms lingering for up to two weeks.
Vaccination appointments can be booked at a number of locations across the community.
Northern Health encourages the community to speak to their local GP, pharmacy or other immunisation provider about getting vaccinated against influenza.
