NSW Health is urging families to stay up to date with vaccinations during the school holidays to prevent serious respiratory illnesses.
The latest NSW Health Respiratory Surveillance Report shows a rise in influenza cases, emergency department visits, and admissions for the week ending 06 Jul.
Dr Jeremy McAnulty, Executive Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, noted that influenza activity remains high across all age groups, especially in children.
Parents should ensure their young children are vaccinated, and pharmacists should continue to remind their customers to get immunised, he said.
"Children under five are at higher risk of severe illness from influenza, and the flu vaccine is free for children aged six months to under five years," McAnulty commented.
He emphasised the importance of timely vaccination, noting it takes 10 to 14 days for immunity to develop in people.
"Now is the time to get vaccinated to protect your family when school returns," he advised.
He also reminded the public that influenza, COVID-19, and RSV diseases are circulating during the school holidays.
"People with these illnesses or cold and flu-like symptoms should stay home and wear a mask if they must go out," McAnulty added.
NSW Health reminds that free vaccinations are available for those at higher risk of severe illness, including people aged 65 and over, children aged six months to under five years, Aboriginal people from six months of age, pregnant women, and individuals with serious health conditions. JG
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