Vaccinate children now against flu: doctors
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Vaccinate now...parents are being warned to prepare for the winter flu. (Reuters: Beawiharta)
Doctors are urging parents to take up the offer of a free flu vaccine for children aged under the age of five.
The Health Department says about 45 per cent of eligible children in Perth have had their first shot, but some have not gone back for the vital second jab.
Two doses are required for the vaccine to be effective.
Dr Richard Choong from the Australian Medical Association says it is not too late.
"We can still vaccinate and I would encourage all parents to bring their kids in if they haven't already been vaccinated," he said.
"The government's offering free vaccines for five and under, and, for those older, I think that the parents need to consider whether they want to have the vaccinations because it is available at a small cost from the pharmacy."
Chronic illnesses
The Health Department's s Paul Van Buynder says 80 per cent of seniors have had shots.
However, he says there has been a low rate of vaccination for those with chronic illnesses.
"Flu vaccination in people with chronic conditions like asthma has been very disappointing, and has been most years," he said.
"We would urge everybody with a chronic medical condition to make sure they have a flu vaccine."
Hospitals are reporting few cases of flu at this stage but last year's season hit WA late and was at its worst in August and September.
