I’m fit and healthy – should I get the flu shot?

If you are a fit and healthy adult under the age of 65, it is recommended that you receive the flu vaccine if you have regular contact with very young children, the elderly or people who are unwell. Its important to note that the benefits of the flu vaccine go beyond the person receiving [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:22:54+11:00April 1st, 2020|

Does coronavirus make this flu season more dangerous?

It is not yet clear the extent to which coronavirus worsens influenza; there is simply not enough data at this stage on people with co-infections. But some things always hold true. Having two infections can seriously hamper your immune system. If you already have the flu, your immune system will not cope as well [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:21:52+11:00April 1st, 2020|

Are there any side effects to the flu shot?

Serious adverse reactions to the flu vaccine are very rare. About 10% experience swelling, redness or pain at the site of the injection. 10% of children aged six months to three years experience fever. Side effects or adverse reactions following any immunisation can be reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration by calling the Adverse [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:20:12+11:00April 1st, 2020|

Are there any special circumstances I should know about?

All immunocompromised patients and children under 9 years of age who receive the flu shot for the first time are recommended to receive two vaccine doses, at least four weeks apart and one dose annually thereafter. Children under three years of age will require a junior version of the vaccine.

By |2020-04-01T14:13:20+11:00April 1st, 2020|

What medical conditions put me at increased risk of severe influenza?

Cardiac disease, including cyanotic congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Chronic respiratory conditions, including suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severe asthma. Other chronic illnesses requiring regular medical follow up or hospitalisation in the previous year, including diabetes mellitus, chronic metabolic diseases, chronic renal failure, and haemoglobinopathies. Chronic [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:13:43+11:00April 1st, 2020|

Who is the flu shot free for?

While anyone can receive the flu shot, it is free for the following groups of people: People aged six months to less than five years. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and older. Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy). People aged 65 years and older. People aged six months and [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:12:36+11:00April 1st, 2020|

Does Yarra Medical provide company flu vaccines?

Yes, we do. The cost is $49 per patient for on-site flu shots, or $20 if attending one of our clinics. Employers will be asked to email how many people they need vaccinated, and their contact details. Please contact one of our clinics to organise company flu shots.

By |2020-04-16T10:10:57+10:00April 1st, 2020|

How much does the flu shot cost?

If you book in for an appointment with the nurse, you will only pay for the cost of the flu shot, which is $20. You will also be seen briefly by a GP beforehand (n.b., no other GP services are available for this appointment, including scripts and referrals). If you book in with the [...]

By |2020-04-01T14:12:59+11:00April 1st, 2020|