Protect Yourself and Your Family This Flu Season with Glen Iris GP

As flu season approaches, it’s important to prioritise your health and the health of your loved ones. At Glen Iris General Practice, we believe in taking proactive steps to prevent illness. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you is by getting the annual flu vaccine.

Why Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu can affect anyone, but it can lead to serious complications for certain groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions. The flu vaccine is a vital part of your preventive healthcare routine, providing protection not just for you, but also for your family, friends, and the community.

Key Benefits of the Flu Vaccine:

• Prevents Illness: The flu vaccine helps prevent the spread of influenza, keeping you healthier and reducing the chances of catching or spreading the virus.

• Reduces Severity: Even if you do get the flu after being vaccinated, symptoms are often milder, and recovery tends to be quicker.

• Protects Vulnerable Groups: Getting vaccinated protects those who are most at risk of serious flu complications, including babies, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing health conditions like asthma or diabetes.

• Minimises Healthcare Strain: By reducing the number of people falling seriously ill with the flu, vaccinations help prevent strain on hospitals and the healthcare system, especially during flu season.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

While everyone aged six months and older is encouraged to get the flu vaccine, certain groups are at higher risk of severe flu complications and should prioritise getting their flu shot. These include:

• Children (6 months to 5 years): Young children are more likely to suffer from severe flu symptoms, including fever, respiratory issues, and hospitalisation. Vaccination is a crucial step in protecting their health and preventing the spread of the virus to others.

• Elderly Individuals (65 years and older): Seniors are particularly vulnerable to flu-related complications such as pneumonia and exacerbation of chronic conditions. The flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation for older Australians.

• Pregnant Women: Flu infections during pregnancy can be more severe and may lead to complications for both the mother and the unborn child. The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women and is recommended to protect both mother and baby from potentially serious health issues.

• People with Chronic Health Conditions: If you have conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses, the flu can lead to severe complications. Getting vaccinated helps reduce the risk of these complications and ensures better overall health during flu season.

The flu vaccine is a safe, effective way to protect yourself and others from influenza, especially for those most at risk. Be sure to consult with your GP at Glen Iris General Practice to discuss how the flu vaccine can benefit your specific health needs.

Why Choose Glen Iris GP for Your Flu Vaccine?

At Glen Iris General Practice, we make it simple and convenient for you to get vaccinated. Our dedicated team, led by Dr. Sara Taher, takes the time to ensure that every patient receives personalised care. Whether you’re coming in for a routine check-up or your annual flu shot, we provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients of all ages.

Getting Your Flu Vaccine at Glen Iris GP:

• Convenient Location: Glen Iris GP is conveniently located near Glen Iris Station, Tram 6, and Bus 612, making it easy to get to us from anywhere in the local area.

• Personalised Care: Our team takes the time to understand your health history and any concerns you may have. We offer a compassionate, patient-centred approach to ensure your experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

• Accredited, Private-Billing Practice: As an accredited, private-billing GP practice, you can trust us to deliver the highest standard of care. We are committed to providing a quality experience from start to finish.

• Onsite Parking: For your convenience, we offer onsite parking, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot.

What to Expect During Your Flu Vaccine Appointment

When you visit Glen Iris GP for your flu shot, the process is straightforward and quick. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation: We’ll briefly discuss your medical history, check for any potential contraindications, and ensure the flu vaccine is appropriate for you.

2. Vaccination: The flu vaccine is administered as a simple injection, usually in the upper arm. It’s quick, relatively painless, and typically causes minimal side effects like a sore arm or mild fatigue.

3. Post-Vaccine Care: After the vaccine is administered, you’ll be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions. Most people return to their daily activities immediately after the appointment.

Is the Flu Vaccine Covered by Medicare?

Yes! If you are eligible, the flu vaccine is fully covered by Medicare, so there are no out-of-pocket costs for the vaccine itself. We also offer private billing for any consultation fees if required.

How to Book Your Flu Vaccine Appointment

It’s important to get vaccinated early, as the flu season can start as early as May. At Glen Iris GP, we make it easy to book your flu vaccine appointment:

• Book Online: You can conveniently book your flu vaccine appointment online through our website.

• Call Us: If you prefer to speak to someone, feel free to call us at (03) 9828 7505 to schedule your appointment.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu this season.

Book Flu Vaccination Today

At Glen Iris GP, we believe in the power of preventive healthcare. By getting your flu vaccine, you’re not only protecting yourself but also helping protect the broader community. The more people who are vaccinated, the less chance the flu has to spread. Together, we can make this flu season a little safer for everyone.

Do I need to get the flu vaccine every year?

Yes, it's recommended to get vaccinated annually. Flu strains can change each year, and immunity from the vaccine decreases over time.

Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. While some people may experience mild flu-like symptoms, such as a sore arm, low-grade fever, or muscle aches, these are typically short-lived and much less severe than the actual flu. The vaccine contains inactivated virus components that cannot cause infection.

Are there any side effects from the flu vaccine?

Common side effects are generally mild and can include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or muscle aches. These typically resolve within a few days.

When is the best time to get vaccinated?

It's recommended to get vaccinated before the flu season starts, typically around May in Australia, to ensure optimal protection.

Is the flu vaccine safe?

Yes, the flu vaccine is safe for most people and is recommended for everyone aged six months and older. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns or specific health conditions.