Pharmacy Daily | Victoria extends free flu shot push

VICTORIANS who have yet to receive a State-funded influenza vaccine will be able to go to their community pharmacy for a shot until 10 Jul.

The program had been scheduled to come to an end on Thu, in line with similar programs across the country, which are due to wrap up on 30 Jun.

However, rising case numbers have prompted the Victorian Government to extend the campaign.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia Victorian Branch President, Anthony Tassone, welcomed the State Government's decision.

"The program has already seen significant increases in the uptake of flu vaccines by Victorians surging past record levels seen in 2020 - with over 700 pharmacies nationwide participating in the program," he said.

"This winter has seen high flu case numbers on top of the ongoing COVID pandemic resulting in significant disruptions to school, work and added pressure on an already stretched health system.

"Community pharmacies continue to show how important we are in the delivery of primary and public health services - with helping boost free flu vaccine programs that have been launched in most states and territories.

"Looking ahead, we need to have a coordinated national program for the 2023 flu season to ensure primary care, pharmacies, and general practice, can plan well ahead for vaccine stock procurement and their workforce.

"The Guild stands ready to work with government at a State and Federal level to help make this happen."

With more than 55,000 confirmed cases recorded across Australia in the last two weeks, Seqirus Vaccines and Biosecurity Managing Director, Dr Daniel Furtner, said the company would support state governments to extend their free vaccination campaigns.

"With our healthcare system facing pressure from COVID-19 and influenza this winter, achieving high influenza vaccination coverage is crucial in ensuring we help to reduce the strain on hospitals," he said.

"We are committed to protecting the health of Australians and we are partnering with government and immunisation providers to make flu vaccines available to help protect Australians this season.

"We welcome any moves to extend the various state government vaccination programs, giving more Australians the opportunity to help protect themselves and their family against flu."