Cape York, Torres Strait, and Northern Peninsula Area residents are being urged to ensure they protect themselves and their children against respiratory infections.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Helen Pedgrift said spikes in influenza were being recorded in some communities, such as Hope Vale, Thursday Island and Mer (Murray) Island.
Dr Pedgrift said good hygiene was very important all year round in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses such as common colds, influenza, COVID-19, pertussis, and RSV.
“Always wash your hands with sanitiser, cover your coughs, put tissues straight in the bin and stay away from other people if you or they are sick,’’ she said.
“If you get the flu, you should stay home and rest and drink plenty of fluids until symptoms have resolved, which is usually 5-7 days.
“If you or your family member is getting sicker, they may have fast or difficult breathing, have chest pains, be sleepy or say they are getting worse.
“If this happens, they should go to their doctor or clinic, as you may be suitable to receive anti-viral treatment.
“But you should seek care early, especially if you have other chronic conditions, as antivirals are only effective if started early – within the first couple of days of symptoms.’’
Dr Pedgrift said the flu could be serious, especially for high-risk people like young children, older people, pregnant women, and people with some illnesses – like breathing problems or diabetes.
Dr Pedgrift said vaccination was the best protection against many respiratory conditions like influenza and RSV.
“There is still time to get your flu vaccination. It is important to be vaccinated every year to keep yourself protected because flu strains change annually, and you will not be immune to the new strains,’’ she said.
“In Queensland, free RSV, pertussis and flu vaccines are available for pregnant women. This is to help protect them and their babies from potentially serious complications from respiratory infections.”
Contact your nearest local health clinic.