Influenza is a highly contagious disease, which can usually be prevented by receiving the flu vaccine. It’s the most important measure to prevent the flu and its complications and is recommended for all people aged six months and over.

At Northern Health, the flu vaccine is mandatory for all staff, clinical and non-clinical. Barsha Baral, Manager, Infection Prevention and Surveillance, says not only does the flu vaccine reduce your chance of getting influenza, but also reduces the risk of serious illness, medical visits and hospitalisation if you do get the flu.

“The flu isn’t like the common cold, it can hit quickly and last for a few weeks, meaning time off work or school and staying away from family and friends,” she said.

“The more people who are vaccinated in the community, the less likely influenza will spread.”

It is recommended to receive your annual flu vaccine anytime from April onwards to ensure maximum protection for the peak flu season during Melbourne’s cold, winter months, which is typically between June and September.

However, the flu doesn’t disappear as winter comes to an end. The flu can circulate in the community year-round.

“It is never too late to get vaccinated,” Barsha says.

Influenza is typically spread by contact with fluids from coughs, and sneezes, therefore making it a highly contagious disease. Receiving a flu vaccine is just one step in helping to stop the spread.

“Good hand hygiene, cough etiquette and staying home when unwell helps prevent the spread of influenza. In the health care settings, staff should adhere to hand hygiene and droplet precaution (use of surgical mask) with suspected or confirmed influenza cases,” Barsha said.

Ninety-six per cent of Northern Health staff are currently vaccinated. Anyone who is yet to receive their vaccine, must do so by this Thursday, 15 August. Staff can visit the Staff Health Clinic located on Level 1, opposite Ward 15 at Northern Hospital Epping, Monday to Friday between 9 am – 4 pm to receive their vaccine.

Alternatively, staff can visit clinical areas which have nurse immunisers. Anyone who has received the vaccine externally, must send evidence to Staff Health by 15 August.

All staff, clinical and non-clinical who do not receive the vaccine by 15 August, will be required to wear an N95 mask in all work areas across Northern Health, effective Thursday, 16 August. This requirement will remain in place until the flu season is declared over, which will be communicated to staff.

Featured image: Barsha Baral, Manager, Infection Prevention and Surveillance.