Free Swine Flu vaccine for all

The Rudd Government has placed an order for 21 million doses of the newly developed Swine Flu vaccine.

 

The Victorian State Government will administer the vaccine to local populations, through local GPs, influenza clinics, Aboriginal Medical Services and local government services.

 

“A total of 5.5 million doses of the vaccine have been delivered around Australia for the start of this program, with thousands more vaccines being produced each day,” Ms Macklin said.

 

“While H1N1 2009, or Swine Flu as we all commonly know it, has remained a mild illness for most sufferers, it is still critical that we don’t lose sight of the more devastating hard-edge of this disease.

 

“It has led to more than 4700 people being hospitalised in Australia, with almost 1500 of those hospitalisations being children and teenagers. So unlike seasonal influenza which mainly impacts the elderly, it has affected younger people.”

 

Ms Macklin said the average age of Australian deaths from Swine Flu was 51 years. Ten children have died from the influenza.

 

“It is important that local residents take this disease seriously and protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated.” Ms Macklin said.

 

For information about how people can access the free vaccine, ring the National Pandemic Hotline on 180 2007 or visit www.healthemergency.gov.au.