Illawarra residents are being encouraged to get the flu shot, with the flu season expected to peak in the coming weeks.
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So far the region’s residents have escaped the worst, with an average of seven confirmed influenza cases per week in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District in June.
Other areas of the state didn’t fare as well – for instance there were 199 notifications for Western Sydney and 135 in Northern Sydney in the week ending June 25.
Across the state, there were 2567 flu notifications in June – almost double the number in June 2016. However NSW Health director of communicable disease, Dr Vicky Sheppeard, said more people were being diagnosed due to better monitoring.
‘’The flu season is expected to peak in the coming weeks, so now is a good time to get vaccinated if you haven’t already done so,’’ Dr Sheppeard said. ‘’Our surveillance shows the flu season started earlier than usual this year and we expect to see a large increase in infections in the coming weeks.’’
This year’s flu vaccine covers the four influenza strains circulating in Australia. Those eligible for a free vaccine should make an appointment with their local doctor; other people can see their GP or chemist.