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With the 2023 flu season imminent, Warrnambool Mayor Cr Debbie Arnott and CEO Andrew Mason have had their flu shots, and they are encouraging everyone to do the same.

According to the latest statistics from the Victorian Government, 18 people in Warrnambool have already contracted Influenza this year, compared with just one at the same time last year.

In 2022, a total of 239 influenza cases were recorded in Warrnambool.

“Our immunisation team is now taking bookings for children aged from 6 months to under five years of age, and I’d encourage parents and carers to get in touch with us to make a booking for their child to receive a free vaccine,” Mr Mason said.

“Everyone older than this is still encouraged to receive the vaccine via their GP or pharmacy.”

People in the following groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
-    all children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
-    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from 6 months and over
-    pregnant women – at any stage of pregnancy
-    people 65 years and over
-    people aged 6 months and older with medical conditions putting them at higher risk of severe flu and its complications

“For many years, we’ve known that a flu vaccine is the best thing you can do to help protect yourself, your family and the wider community from this potentially deadly illness,” Mayor Debbie Arnott said.

“It’s a busy time of year for many people, but I’d urge everyone to make getting a flu vaccine a priority. It’s quick, it’s easy and it will make a big difference.

“As well as a flu shot, good habits such as regularly washing your hands also go a long way to keeping everyone safe.”

To book a flu vaccine for children aged from six months to under five years, please contact the Warrnambool City Council immunisation team on 5559 4855.

Bookings for people aged five or older can be made directly with your chosen GP, pharmacist or health service.