AMA Queensland joins Chief Health Officer to promote flu vaccinations

Getting your yearly flu vaccination is one of the simplest things you can do to protect your health – and the health of those around you.

AMA Queensland Immediate Past President Dr Maria Boulton has called on more Queenslanders to roll up their sleeves before winter arrives.

Dr Boulton, a Brisbane GP, was invited to join Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll at a Newmarket practice on Wednesday 16 April.

Dr Carroll received her flu jab in front of the TV cameras to promote Queensland’s free vaccination program.

Queensland Health data shows more than 13,600 cases of influenza have been recorded across the state so far this year, a 35 per cent increase on 2024.

RSV and COVID-19 are also still circulating, making vaccination also critically important to prevent rising case numbers with those viruses.

More than 264,000 Queenslanders have already received a flu shot, but many more need to get the jab to boost herd immunity and reduce the risk and severity of flu-related complications.

Nearly 200 people died of influenza last year, and most were unvaccinated.

Dr Boulton said she was already seeing a surge in cases at her own practice.

“If you’re thinking about getting the flu vaccine, now is the time to do it – don’t wait,” she said.

“The flu can affect anyone at any age, but people most at risk are people over the age of 65, young children, babies, people who are immune-compromised, people who have diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease, and also pregnant women.

“It is a yearly vaccine, so if you had your vaccine last year, that doesn’t count for this year.

“We know that flu vaccines reduce the risk of severe disease and reduce the risk that you’ll actually get the flu infection.”

Mass vaccination is also key to preventing extra strain on Queensland’s emergency departments during the winter season.

Ask your GP about getting your flu vaccination today.

Hear more from Dr Maria Boulton