The National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance reports that only 10.5% of Victorian children aged six months to five years are vaccinated against the flu, while 40.9% of those over 65 are vaccinated. Although it is recommended that all Australians over six months receive a flu vaccine, it is strongly recommended for children aged six months to five years, the elderly, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and those with certain medical conditions. One family’s experience highlights the importance of flu vaccination, as their five-year-old son Xavier became seriously ill with Influenza A despite not displaying all typical flu symptoms. He experienced seizures and unconsciousness, prompting a hospital visit and a diagnosis that left his parents shaken.
The Mellor family is now urging others to vaccinate their children against the flu, as Xavier’s illness was a traumatic and frightening experience for them. Director of Austin Hospital’s emergency department, Dr. Michael Ben-Meir, notes a spike in flu admissions at the Melbourne hospital, particularly among seriously ill children. While most children recover from the flu within seven days without treatment, some end up in the hospital with complications such as memory loss, seizures, and learning difficulties. Signs that a child may need medical attention for the flu include difficulty breathing, high temperatures that do not respond to medication, and confusion or difficulty waking up.
On the other hand, Monash Health in Melbourne’s south-east has seen a rise in COVID-19 and RSV admissions, with Monash Children’s Hospital treating 190 RSV-infected children and Monash Medical Centre caring for 80 COVID-19 patients. Professor Rhonda Stuart, director of public health and infection prevention at Monash Health, attributes the increase in infections to a combination of travel, immunity, and people being indoors, allowing viruses to circulate more easily. It is crucial for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems to take precautions to prevent these illnesses and seek medical help if needed.
Preventative measures such as vaccination and good hygiene practices are essential in reducing the spread of flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses. Public health experts emphasize the importance of staying informed, getting vaccinated, and following guidelines to protect oneself and others from illness. As the community continues to navigate the challenges of the ongoing pandemic and flu season, it is vital to prioritize health and safety measures to ensure the well-being of all individuals, especially those at higher risk of complications from these illnesses. By taking proactive steps to prevent infections and seek medical attention when needed, individuals can help mitigate the impact of respiratory illnesses on themselves and their communities.
