2024 FLU SEASON
FREE FLU VACCINES available now for anyone under 5, over 65 or medical condition that meets the Medicare criteria.
You can book for this online via Hotdoc, or call the clinic on 3211 3611.
Book Yours Today
Every year flu season sweeps Australia and we have to decide whether or not to take the precaution against it and have the flu vaccine. Obviously we here at CBD Medical receive calls from people looking to have questions answered, trying their best to make up their minds.
Below are some of the common questions that may help you make that decision this year. Still not sure? Check out our recent blog postFlu Shot 2019 - 5 Common Myths for further info.
This years Quadrivalent (or four strain) vaccine includes the following strains:
- A/MICHIGAN/45/2015 (H1N1) pdm09 - like virus
- A/SINGAPORE/INFIMH-16-0019/2016 (H3N2) - like virus
- B/BRISBANE/60/2008 - like virus
- B/PHUKET/3073/2013 - like virus
Q: What is influenza and how is it transmitted?
A: Influenza is a viral infection that is transmitted by virus-containing aerosols from coughing, sneezing or direct contact with respiratory secretions.
Q: Is influenza considered serious?
A: If you are infected you may be unwell for up to a week but I can take up to two weeks to recover.
This can cause complications including pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections
Q: My friend said that they got the flu after having the vaccine last year. Can that happen?
A: Influenza vaccines given in Australia do not contain 'live' virus and can not give you the flu. After vaccination, you will develop antibodies that are likely to protect you against the strains of virus represented in that years vaccine.
Q: When is the best time to have my flu vaccine?
A: The best time is between March and May as the peak season is usually between June and September so best not to wait too long!
Q: I got it last year, do I need to have it again?
A: Yes! The Flu viruses are frequently changing as the move across the globe every year so the protection you had from last years vaccine can't be guaranteed to give you the same protection this year.
Q: What age can children be vaccinated against the flu?
A: Children can be vaccinated from the age of 6 months but be sure to check with your doctor that the age appropriate vaccine is available.