MedAdvisor has recorded a 20% year-on-year drop in flu shots administered compared to April 2020.
More than 65% of Australian pharmacies use the MedAdvisor pharmacy platform, PlusOne, to record and submit immunisation encounters to the Australian Immunisation Register, as well as manage patient bookings.
With peak flu season just one month away, health experts are encouraging more people to get their flu vaccine with numbers lagging significantly compared to last year.
According to Flutracking, just 45 per cent of Australians aged 18-64 have had their flu vaccine – compared with 71.8 per cent at the same time last year. Meanwhile, 66 per cent of Australians 65 and older have had their flu vaccine compared with almost 90 per cent at the same time last year.
Flu shot demand typically peaks in May. Last year, as a direct result of COVID-19, MedAdvisor saw that peak come forward with more people opting for the jab in April.
“We're heading into this year's peak flu season less protected. We can’t afford to be complacent when it comes to flu -and while it can be tricky balancing the timing between COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, it remains vital for our community that, where appropriate, we get out shots.”
During the administering of COVID-19 vaccinations across Australia, experts recommend a two week interim between both the flu and COVID-19 vaccine and, according to the nation’s department of health, the ordering does not matter.
Flu vaccinations can be administered to anyone over the age of six months and can be arranged at local pharmacies around the nation, with MedAdvisor’s Flu Jab appointment service available to help.
It is recommended that if you have had your COVID-19 vaccine, to inform your vaccination provider to ensure appropriate time has passed. Aside from getting the flu jab, it is recommended that Aussies continue practising good hygiene, especially throughout the colder months and amid the global pandemic.
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Australia
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