Firt Aid News

In Victoria, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection numbers are high among children aged 5 to 11 years, particularly in those in their first few years of school.

Keeping our school community well

Parents, carers and students are encouraged to:

• wash and sanitise their hands regularly
• avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing · stay at home if unwell and consult a general practitioner (GP) or NURSE-ON-CALL as needed
• stay up to date with flu vaccinations.

Flu vaccinations

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting the flu. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. 

As part of the National Immunisation Program, it is free for:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older
• children aged 6 months to under 5 years
• people aged 6 months or older with underlying medical conditions.

Flu vaccinations can be booked through GPs, pharmacies or your local council immunisation service.

Find out more

For more information about staying safe this winter, refer to: 

• Stay well this winter on the Better Health Channel, translated into 16 languages
• Influenza and immunisation on the Better Health Channel
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the Better Health Channel 
• Getting vaccinated against influenza