- Minister for Health
Families are another step closer to having the flu shot for all kids under five placed on the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Immunisation Program, making it free.
The flu can be deadly, especially among children, and the best protection is vaccination, but currently, the Andrews Labor Government funds the vital flu shot because the Commonwealth doesn’t.
With the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee now recommending the flu vaccination for all kids under five for inclusion on the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Immunisation Program, the Morrison Government must act and make the flu shot free for all Australian children aged six months to five years.
Already this year, there have been more than 5,000 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in children aged under five notified with the Department of Health and Human Services.
The Morrison Government now has all the information they need to determine the flu vaccination for kids under five belongs on the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Immunisation Program, but must act fast in order to make sure our kids are protected by next year’s flu season.
Victoria has been hit hard by flu this year, with 49,329 laboratory-confirmed cases already. Sadly, we have been notified of 105 Victorians who have died, including seven children.
The latest data shows five-year-olds in Victoria are better protected against diseases prevented by vaccination than any other state, with 95.7 per cent of kids aged five now fully immunised.
The Labor Government takes a non-negotiable approach to vaccination, with tough ‘No Jab, No Play’ laws protecting kids at childcare, and vaccinations soon to be mandatory for frontline hospital workers.
As stated by Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos
“We’re another step closer to seeing the flu shot for all kids under five on the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Immunisation Program – where it belongs – but it’s not a done deal until Canberra says so.”
“The flu can be particularly dangerous for young children. Their own Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee is telling the Commonwealth it’s time – they need to listen.”
“Vaccinations are safe, effective and they save lives – all Victorians should be vaccinated against the spread of dangerous diseases.”
