28 April 2023
Canberra’s colder months bring increases of respiratory illnesses in the community.
These illnesses can be unpleasant or more serious. There are things you can do to prepare and prevent becoming sick or severely unwell, such as getting vaccinated.
Vaccination is the best protection from serious illness and hospitalisation if you get COVID-19 or influenza (flu).
Influenza vaccines are updated every year to protect against new influenza strains. Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu vaccination.
Government-funded vaccines are available for children aged six months to under five years, as well as for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, during pregnancy, people with certain medical conditions, and those aged 65 years and older (a consultation fee may apply).
COVID-19 vaccines have also been updated to protect against new COVID-19 variants. A GP or treating health professional can provide COVID-19 booster advice based on your individual situation, including if you should get a booster and when. Generally, a booster dose is recommended six months after your last COVID-19 vaccination dose or your last COVID-19 infection (whichever is most recent).
Vaccinations are available from participating GPs and some pharmacies.
You can use Find a Health Service to locate a vaccination provider near you.
COVID Smart behaviours also help to limit the spread of COVID-19, flu and other respiratory illnesses.
Make sure you’re staying COVID Smart by:
- staying home if you’re unwell
- testing for COVID-19 if you have symptoms. Even if the test is negative, remain at home until you’re feeling better
- practising good hand hygiene
- wearing a mask, if you can, when entering public indoor settings or where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing.
If you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or influenza, speak to your regular health care provider about what to do if you become unwell, including how to access testing and treatments.
