15 August 2011

NSW Health urges flu shots for community - especially pregnant women

NSW Health Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today said it is important that the community takes seriously the risks associated with the winter flu season.

Flu symptoms can quickly degenerate to become life-threatening.  Dr Chant stressed that it is not too late in the season for people to get a vaccination.

“Each year there are estimated to be hundreds of deaths in NSW due to influenza or its complications, including pneumonia and heart failure. In only a small proportion of these is flu confirmed, however,” Dr Chant said.

An expert panel convened by Dr Chant has confirmed that young infants, pregnant women and people with serious underlying medical conditions are most at risk.

“The expert advisory panel has been particularly concerned about reports of deaths this year in two infants and one young child who tested positive for influenza,” Dr Chant said.

Dr Chant stressed the need for pregnant women to be vaccinated against the virus during any stage of their pregnancy.

“It is extremely important for the community – particularly pregnant women – to get vaccinated now, as influenza rates are high across NSW,” Dr Chant said.

“Vaccination during pregnancy is safe.  The seasonal flu shot has been given to millions of pregnant women over many years and continues to be the best defence against flu for women and their babies.

“It reduces the risk to pregnant women of serious illness and can actually provide protection to their babies through the transfer of antibodies. That protection can last up to six months after birth.

“Babies born by mums who were vaccinated also have lower rates of serious infection.

 “It takes time for the vaccine to work, so now is the time to get vaccinated to get the best possible protection against the virus,” Dr Chant said.

The vaccine is available, free, to pregnant women and people considered vulnerable to severe influenza, including those with chronic illness, persons 65 and older, and Aboriginal people aged 15 years and older.

Taking preventive measures with personal hygiene, such as covering your mouth when coughing and washing your hands regularly, will also help reduce the risk of contracting the flu virus.

NSW Health reminds parents and families that health advice and information is available via the free Health Direct Australia service, staffed by registered nurses 24-hours a day, on 1800 022 222.