Influenza, commonly known as ‘the flu’, is generally spread by coughs and sneezes or by direct contact with respiratory secretions.  Eastern Health’s Chief Nursing Officer David Plunkett says vaccination, as well as appropriate hygiene measures, are the best forms of protection from influenza viruses, including swine flu.

"Influenza viruses change frequently, therefore the influenza vaccine is updated every year. This year’s vaccine will also provide protection from human swine flu and is especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications," he said.
It is important for the community to know that while the vaccination does not guarantee a flu-free winter, it can significantly reduce the risk of severe cases.

"Influenza vaccine cannot give you a dose of influenza because it contains no active virus. Some people who get the influenza vaccine may still get the flu but they will usually get a milder case than those who were not vaccinated," he said.

The National Immunisation Program Schedule provides free influenza vaccinations for people in high-risk categories, including; 

• Everyone aged 65 years and older
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and older 
• Pregnant women 
• Those with a medical condition that increases the risk of influenza complications such as, heart disease, chronic lung and kidney disease, neuromuscular disorders and diabetes. 
• Parents of young children with risk factors should consult with their own doctor about the benefits of vaccination 
• Residents in nursing homes and long term care facilities
  　

Anyone with a sudden onset of symptoms should contact their doctor immediately to avoid worsening illnesses such as pneumonia and other potentially fatal complications.

About Influenza
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a highly contagious virus that is spread by coughs and sneezes or by direct contact with respiratory secretions. Every year it causes illness in the community and when a high proportion of people in a group or geographic region are affected it is referred to as an epidemic. Symptoms usually occur one to three days after infection and may include sudden onset of fever, chills, cough, sore throat, headaches, muscle aches, severe tiredness, and loss of appetite. Complications may include pneumonia, worsening of other illnesses and death.

About Eastern Health
Eastern Health is one of Victoria’s largest public health services. It provides a range of acute, sub-acute, mental health and community health services from 23 locations. Its larger facilities include: Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully, Box Hill Hospital in Box Hill, Healesville & District Hospital in Healesville, Maroondah Hospital in Ringwood East, Peter James Centre in Burwood East, Wantirna Health in Wantirna, Yarra Valley Community Health in Healesville and Yarra Ranges Health in Lilydale.
Media information:

Ashlea Milner, Eastern Health Communications & Community Relations, ph 03 9895 4879