Campaspe Shire Council is gearing up for the flu season and will be offering vaccinations from May.
Mayor Cr Adrian Weston said council will begin administering flu shots from May to ensure vaccinations are most effective for the peak flu season.
"Research shows that the peak flu season is from August to September and vaccinations are most effective after three months," Cr Weston said.
Council's flu vaccine contains the four most common strains of the flu virus of which two strains differ from last year's vaccine. Vaccines are available at a cost $30.
Residents are required to pre pay for flu vaccinations which can be received at council's immunisation sessions in Echuca, Rochester, Lockington, Gunbower, Kyabram, Stanhope, Tongala, Rushworth or Girgarre.
"Flu vaccinations are free for people over 65 and individuals in the high risk category," Cr Weston said.
Council's immunisation team also run a business program sessions with group vaccinations. Campaspe businesses can arrange a date and time for immunisation nurses to visit their workplace and conduct a group vaccination session for their staff at a cost of $30 per dose.
Last year, 1,400 doses of the flu vaccine were administered by council prior to the countrywide shortage. This year 1,500 - 1,700 vaccines are expected to be given.
"Vaccinations have been pre ordered in preparation for the May sessions," Cr Weston said.
With over 3,000 flu-related deaths each year, vaccinating is the most effective way to protect both yourself and those around you.
"Contrary to popular belief, the vaccine cannot give you a dose of the flu because it does not contain any live virus," Cr Weston said.
Pre payments can be made by calling the customer contact team on 1300 666 535 or visiting a customer service centre.
