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With the winter school holidays in NSW only weeks away, AMA (NSW) is urging parents to make plans now to get flu vaccinations for their kids ahead of the break.
The winter school holiday period in NSW for most schools is Monday 3 July till Friday 14 July.
AMA (NSW) President, Dr Michael Bonning, said that infection rates for both COVID-19 and flu remain high, and stressed the importance of everybody being up to date with their vaccinations.
“We are experiencing a new wave of COVID-19 infections in conjunction with a high number of influenza cases,” Dr Bonning said.
“Reported flu cases in NSW have more than doubled in the past five weeks, climbing from about 32,000 at the end of April to more than 68,000 cases as of last week.
“Children under 10 are getting infected at much higher rates than other age groups, and more than 300 children under 16 have been admitted to hospital.
“We can take the pressure off the health system by ensuring as many people as possible get their flu shots, especially older and other vulnerable groups.
“This includes school kids at holiday time when families move around the country to visit extended family, friends, or chase warmer weather.
“It is safe to get kids vaccinated.
“Parents should contact their GP as soon as possible to ensure all eligible family members are vaccinated before their travel or other holiday activities.
“In fact, anybody planning travel, domestic or international, should get all their recommended vaccines before departure.
“Influenza vaccines can be co-administered on the same day with any COVID-19 vaccine.
“AMA (NSW) also recommends that people wear masks to maximise protection, wherever possible, but especially in crowded places like sporting or concert venues, airports and railway stations, public transport,shopping centres, supermarkets, and playgrounds.
“The Government is also acting.
“The NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, wrote to all NSW general practices this week offering delivery of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) and masks to help practices get through this winter season.
“We must all do our bit to protect public health and keep people safe,” Dr Bonning said.
More information on influenza vaccination is on the NSW Health website at https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/flu.aspx
Contact
AMA (NSW) Media: +61 419 402 955 | news@amansw.com.au