It’s flu season and the Central Australia Health Service is reminding everyone that it’s time to get vaccinated to protect yourself, your family and your community from the spread of influenza.

“The 2016 vaccine is now available and people should be aware that it takes two weeks for the body to produce a protective immune response after getting the shot so it’s good idea to have it done as soon as possible,” said Carol Farmer, General Manager of Primary Health Care.

“It is particularly important for people over the age of 65 to get vaccinated, especially if they have chronic medical conditions, such as chronic heart, lung, kidney or neurological conditions, diabetes or lowered immunity.”

The free seasonal flu vaccine is now available for people over the age of 65 and people with a chronic medical condition at the Alice Springs Community Health Centre on Flynn Drive on Thursdays from 9am to 12pm but you can also book an appointment for Thursday afternoons between 1:30pm and 3:30pm.

Last year there were more than 700 notifications in the Northern Territory, with 254 people admitted to hospital.

“Everyone who wants to avoid contacting influenza should be vaccinated and it is important to note that if you had a flu shot in 2015 now is the time to renew your protection,” Ms. Farmer said.

For further information about influenza and the vaccine go to http://www.health.nt.gov.au/Flu/index.aspx

The Central Australia Health Service is governed by a Statutory Board and is responsible for the Alice Springs and Tennant Creek Hospitals.  It has a primary role in health service delivery in the region, including primary health care, mental health, oral health, cancer screening services and alcohol and other drug services.  

Media Contact: Gail Liston 8951 5111 or 0476 839 383