North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) is urging Queenslanders to book their free influenza vaccine during April.

Dr Stephen Donohue, Public Health Physician, said scheduling your annual influenza vaccination this year is critical, because serious infections are already spreading.

“The vaccine itself is free for everyone over 6 months of age, because it is so important. Protect your family at a GP, pharmacist, or employer, it prevents or reduces the severity of flu strains that could put you in hospital,” Dr Donohue said.

“For the elderly, COVID19 boosters can be given at the same time.

“With event season on the horizon for North West Queensland, it is expected there will be many visitors passing through town and numbers of influenza cases could skyrocket.

Vaccination is free from GPs, community health clinics, and local pharmacies for all Queenslanders. Call ahead to ensure they have the correct vaccine for you as people under 6 months old or over 65 years of age receive different vaccines.

Other things community can do to combat the flu this season; wash or sanitise hands after being with people, wear a mask in crowded areas if you feel more comfortable, and stay at home if you are sick.