We’re fast approaching winter – also known as runny nose, chesty cough and sick leave season.
It’s like a dream for the influenza virus, but we can turn it into a nightmare by taking one very important preventative measure.
“Getting vaccinated against the flu is the best way for you to protect yourself against the virus,” said pharmacist Amrit Kaur, who administers vaccines at TerryWhite Chemmart Penrith Compounding.
“You also get to protect the people around you because you’re building your immunity against the virus so you’re less likely to spread it.”
According to the expert, now is the best time to get vaccinated.
“I usually recommend starting in April or May because that gives you enough time to build immunity,” Kaur explained.
“The vaccination takes about two weeks for you to get full immunity.”
The pharmacist recommends all locals get the jab because the flu isn’t something to underestimate.
“The flu is not just like a bad cold, it’s much more serious, especially in patients who are more high risk,” Kaur warned.
“That would include young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and patients who have low immunity.”
At-risk groups are prone to developing infections if they catch the highly contagious virus.
“These at-risk groups tend to get infections like sinus infections, ear infections, and pneumonia,” Kaur stated.
“It affects the respiratory system, it can cause heart attacks, hospitalisations… and worst-case scenario, death.”
On the bright side, it appears Penrith residents are on top of their flu shots this year, with early numbers coming into the pharmacy already strong.
“I average around eight to 10 patients in a day, and I’ve seen that increase in the last two weeks,” Kaur said, after mentioning she’s now administered a couple of hundred shots this year.
For those who are putting it off, Kaur has an important message to take in right now.
“I know sometimes getting a booking is difficult, but we do a lot of walk-ins,” Kaur said.
“It takes five seconds for me to jab someone, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Ally Hall
Ally Hall joined the Weekender in 2024, and focuses on entertainment and community stories. She's a graduate of the University of South Australia and has previously worked as a Video Journalist with Southern Cross Austereo and as a News Reader with Australian Radio Network.