Flu vaccine has been advertised too early

The medical association is asking Australian’s to hold off on getting this year’s flu vaccine because it might not protect for the whole season.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) have said that some well-known pharmacies are advertising the flu jab too early in the season. 

AMA national president Michael Gannon said the timing of the shot is important.

‘Pharmacies are out there advertising early flu shots at a time that might not be clinically appropriate,’ he told the ABC.

The president said If get you are vaccinated Autumn it might have lost protection by Spring when the virus had mutated.

‘Remember why you need to have a vaccine every year is the influenza virus rapidly and quickly mutates. It will be appropriate for some patients to defer having their flu shot until well into April,’ he said. 

The president said doctors and the Health Department in Canberra work out the best time to be vaccinated.

‘The best possible value out of the huge investment and to protect as many vulnerable populations as possible,’ he said. 

In those discussions they decide exactly when the vaccine should be released. 

He urged the decision to get the vaccination at a specific time should be made with a doctor. 

The president said If people are vaccinated Autumn it might have lost protection by Spring when the virus had mutated