17 May, 2023 - Cr Liesbeth Long - The Welcome Record

Published on 17 May 2023

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Now that the colder weather is upon us it won’t be long before winter sniffles or worse, a bout of the flu, takes hold. The body is not as effective at fighting a virus when cold air enters the nose and upper airways, so viruses such as the common cold, the flu and COVID-19 often spread more easily in the winter because you've essentially lost half of your immunity just by a drop in temperature.

But did you know that Central Goldfields Shire Council run an Immunisation Service? It began in March 2022 and brought together existing immunisation services that were being conducted from both the Maternal and Child Health and Compliance teams.

Community sessions are regularly run in Maryborough, Dunolly and Talbot. Dunolly sessions commenced in September last year, and now run monthly from the Senior Citizens building. The service also runs workplace flu programs and school immunisation sessions. There is an online booking system which many people like, as well as having a direct number for those who like to book over the phone. Bookings are preferred for all sessions. Book online via email below or, contact Council’s Immunisation Services team on 0428 894 724 immunisation@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au 

Some ‘fun facts’ about the service:

  • In 2022, they conducted 1606 immunisations to 0-6 year olds, 1295 to adolescents and 327 adult vaccines
  • They offer all immunisations that are listed on the State immunisation schedule except for Zostavax. This includes all childhood vaccines, as well as those for adults such as flu and pneumococcal
  • They also offer paid vaccines that are not on the schedule for those who are interested, for example Flu (for those adults who are not eligible for a funded vaccine), Meningococal B, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Whooping Cough, Hepatitis A and B and Chickenpox

The staff are absolutely lovely and consists of a Coordinator, three casual Immunisation nurses and Business Support Officer. 

I recently had my Flu jab in Maryborough. I am not a fan of needles and have been known to pass out (yup), but this was by far one of the better experiences I’ve had getting an immunisation.

Please note that Victorian councils are currently not able to offer COVID-19 vaccines due to insurance constraints, but they would love to!

 

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