Staying Well in Winter Explainer for Flu and COVID Vaccinations by NEMBC Media - VIC Multilingual News Service

This winter, it’s really important to stay up to date with your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.

More travel and more socialising means that both flu as well as COVID-19 are circulating in the community.

Both flu and COVID-19 can make people really sick.

The best way to protect your family and your community this winter, and help give your immunity a boost, is to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible.

Free flu vaccination
The COVID-19 vaccine does not protect you against flu, you still need to get the flu vaccine.

It is safe to get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time.

Everyone aged 6 months and older is recommended to get the flu vaccine, especially people aged 65 years and over, people at higher risk of serious illness of complications from flu, pregnant women and children under 5 years.

The flu vaccine is available free to anyone aged 6 months and over until 30 June.

You can get your flu vaccination from your GP or pharmacist.

Your next Covid-19 vaccination
If you had your second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine more than three months ago, it’s time for your next dose.

Getting your next dose helps keep your protection against COVID strong.

For people aged 65 and over, and those who are severely immunocompromised, or people who have complex, chronic or severe conditions that increase their risk of becoming very sick from COVID-19, an additional winter booster dose is also available and recommended.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about getting vaccinated today.

Winter wellbeing
There are some other things you can do to help stay healthy and well in winter.
If you are spending time with family and friends indoors, open windows and doors to increase ventilation and reduce the risk of spreading illness.

Physically distance from others when you can.

Choosing to wear a mask when you are somewhere crowded can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Spending time outdoors in the sun and exercising regularly can help improve your mood if you struggle with winter weather.

If you are feeling anxious or down you can call 1300 375 330 for free wellbeing support, and interpreters can be arranged.

Together we can stay well this winter.