The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is urging Western Australians to book in for their influenza jab at their GP as the government launches a drive to boost vaccination rates.
The Western Australian Government today announced an expanded Influenza Program for 2023 to encourage uptake.
It includes support for practices to run flu clinics with extra staff and reimbursement payments for the 2023 influenza vaccine for people aged 12-64, who aren't eligible for the free National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccine.
RACGP WA Chair Dr Ramya Raman welcomed the expanded flu vaccine drive.
"The government's expanded flu vaccination drive comes at a key time. It's hard to predict what sort of flu season we will have but confirmed cases have already passed 27,000 across Australia with over 1,990 in WA," she said.
"The RACGP worked closely with the WA government to ensure the expanded flu program included extra support for general practices to get more jabs in arms.
"This includes grants to help practices run flu clinics, which often need extra staff and longer hours, as well as reimbursement for practices to purchase the 2023 influenza vaccine for people aged 12-64.
"This will make a real difference for patients across WA, and help GPs get on with the job we love – making sure our patients can get the care they need, including important vaccinations."
Dr Raman urged Western Australians to book in for their flu jab at their GP.
"Flu vaccines are available from GPs this month – check the practice website for availability and to book, or call reception," she said.
"It's important that people get the right flu vaccine for them. Some people are at higher risk of severe illness and potentially hospitalisation, and they are recommended to get a higher dose vaccine. This includes people aged over 65 years.
"Your GP will know what vaccine is right for you, and if you have any risk factors which mean you should have a higher dose vaccine.
"I'm also encouraging people to get their 2023 COVID-19 booster on the same day – it's safe and more convenient for people to do so.
"The COVID-19 booster dose is available for everyone aged 18 and above, and you can get it six months after your last dose or COVID infection.
"Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and loves ones from both influenza and COVID-19, and the COVID-19 booster also reduces the risk of long COVID. So, book an appointment when you can."
