Health worker flu shot plea
Health professionals working in the Pilbara are reminded to have an influenza vaccine to reduce the risk of passing on the illness to patients.
WA Country Health Service public health physician for Pilbara Dr Heather Lyttle said it was important for health professionals to have the immunisation to reduce their chances of catching influenza from patients, or passing it on to patients who are vulnerable.
"By immunising against influenza, health professionals across the Pilbara hospitals can lead the way to prevent the spread of flu this winter," she said.
"Influenza or 'flu' is a contagious disease caused by a virus that spreads easily from person to person through coughing, sneezing or touching objects contaminated by the virus."
Dr Lyttle said vaccination was the best line of defence against catching influenza.
"Some people resist the influenza vaccination because they think it might cause them to feel 'off colour' for a day after having it," she said.
"This rarely happens and as the vaccine is specific to the types of flu circulating globally, it is an easy and virtually painless way to protect yourself.
"Some people are more likely to develop severe illness from seasonal flu, including pregnant women, people aged 65 years and older, indigenous Australians or individuals with chronic medical conditions."
Dr Lyttle said complications may lead to hospitalisation for individuals within the vulnerable groups.
