More spots for free flu jab this winter

Additional free pop-up flu immunisation clinics are scheduled to open across Springfield in August.

Ipswich City Council is offering the clinics in partnership with Queensland Health to help tackle what it said was “a particularly bad flu season”.

Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chair Andrew Fechner said while the flu is worse for infants and the elderly, it was important for all residents to get the free vaccine so the spread can be slowed.

Immunisation is needed every year because the strains can change each year. While you may only have a mild strain, the next person could end up in a life-threatening situation.

^{– Councillor Andrew Fechner}

“The additional weekend clinics will make it easier for everyone to get vaccinated, it’s safe and clinics can be found throughout Ipswich,” Cr Fechner said.

“Queensland has recorded 15,039 influenza B cases so far this flu season making it the worst on record in recent years.

“Having free vaccines which provide protection against influenza A and B to curb the severity is imperative this season.

Residents can pop into two nearby locations across three days.

These include YMCA Springfield Central, Parkland Drive, on August 3, and Springfield Central Library on August 13, and 19.

Added strains

“Council already runs regular community clinics offering free flu vaccinations for anyone over six months old.

“The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated every year and practise good hygiene: wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitiser.

“Immunisation is needed every year because the strains can change each year.

“While you may only have a mild strain, the next person could end up in a life-threatening situation.”

Ipswich Children’s Library, Rosewood Library, and Ripley Valley State Secondary College round out the additional pop-up locations for the month.

The additional free weekend clinics will be held on:

• Thursday, August 3 – 2:30pm-4:30pm – at YMCA Springfield Central – 134A Parkland Drive, Springfield Central;
• Sunday, August 13 – 10:00am-12:00pm – at Springfield Central Library, Cnr Main Street and Sirius Drive, Springfield Central; and
• Saturday, August 19 – 10:00am-12:00pm – at Springfield Central Library (as above).

For more information, visit the Qld Health website or immunisation handbook.

^{Top image: Ipswich City Council.}

See also: Ball is in your court with UQ Health.