A DECLINE in vaccination rates could lead to an increase in flu-related deaths and other diseases this year, health authorities warn.
The number of people receiving the influenza vaccine has dropped compared to the previous year, which Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen attributes to complacency and misinformation.
“I can’t be too blunt about this, but thousands of people die each year from respiratory diseases,” she said.
“We know there’s some vaccine fatigue following the pandemic, as well as wildly misleading and damaging information circulating on social media, and this is leading to fewer people getting their shots.”
Some countries in the Northern Hemisphere experienced a particularly severe influenza season, which Dr McMullen warned could happen in Australia if vaccination rates do not improve.
“Countries like the United States had a very severe influenza season, with the Centers for Disease Control estimating at least 41 million illnesses, 540,000 hospitalisations, and 23,000 deaths from influenza so far,” she said.
Dr McMullen encouraged people to start booking vaccination appointments to reduce the risk of infection.
“The best protection against the flu occurs about three to four months after receiving the shot, meaning people should aim to get vaccinated around April or May,” she said.
“People need to start booking appointments now with their GPs, who are trained to ensure that vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, receive their vaccinations safely and on time.”
