Make use of free vaccines to protect against flu

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are being urged to protect themselves and their families against the 2019 cold and flu season.

This year is expected to be one of the worst seasons in recent years.

South West Aboriginal Medical Service chief executive Lesley Nelson said Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders were at a higher risk of developing complications due to the common cold and flu.

“Influenza symptoms are typically more severe than your common cold and is caused by a virus that can infect your nose, throat and sometimes lungs. The virus spreads easily from person to person through coughing, sneezing and close contact.”

SWAMS offers free influenza vaccinations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from their clinic at the Busselton Hospital on Monday and Wednesday from 10am-12.30pm.

To book, phone the SWAMS Clinic on 9726 6000.