There’s one month left to go to get the flu shot, if you’re deliberating, we asked 3 doctors:
Is it really worth getting the flu vaccination?
Here’s what they said.
YES says Dr Clare Ballingall, GP and Chair of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners:
“Influenza is a debilitating illness, about 3,000 people die of it every year in Australia. Everybody over six months should have it. It’s not 100 per cent effective (no vaccine is) but it dramatically reduces your risk of getting influenza which can have knock-on effects such as secondary pneumonia and hospital admissions.”
YES says Sydney GP Dr Brad McKay
“It’s safe and effective. It’s especially important to have it if you have a low immune system, lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, if you’re indigenous, pregnant, or over 65. The flu significantly decreases your chance of getting sick and can stop you spreading influenza to others.”
YES says GP Dr Ginni Mansberg
“Because at between $10-12 it’s a low cost option and none of the other precautions – exercising, sleeping or eating well have the same efficacy. Getting the flu means you’re going to have to take a week off work which can be frustrating. If you have an elderly parent you should get vaccinated, because if you transmit the flu to them they can die of it. It’s the best defence we have.”
