Dr Don Yapa is calling on more locals to get vaccinated and take simple steps towards preventing the spread of influenza.
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Owen Sinclair
It takes only a matter of seconds, but getting vaccinated could save a life.
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As flu season continues to hit hard across the country, rural doctors are urging locals to protect their communities, especially vulnerable children and older people, by getting vaccinated and taking simple steps to prevent the spread.
Mivo Medical Clinic’s Dr Don Yapa said influenza spread more easily in winter, when people spent more time indoors and in close contact with others.
“As the temperature drops and winter settles in, many people assume it’s too late to get the flu vaccine,” Dr Yapa said.
Recent data shows influenza is spreading earlier and more widely than in previous years, but vaccine uptake remains lower than expected.
“The reality is, now is still a critical time to protect you and others. Flu season often peaks during the colder months, and vaccination can make a significant difference,” Dr Yapa said.
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine said influenza was placing increasing pressure on rural, remote and First Nations health services, and low vaccination rates could make things worse.
ACRRM president Dr Rod Martin said the flu did not just make a person feel unwell — it could be deadly, especially for children, elders and people with chronic conditions.
“In small communities, one person’s decision to get vaccinated can make a real difference,” Dr Martin said.
The ACRRM’s Dr Rod Martin says too many people are putting off getting their flu shot, despite it being one of the simplest ways to protect themselves and others. Source: ACRRM.
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“It’s about protecting your neighbours as much as yourself.”
The college is encouraging people to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, practise good hygiene and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings.
“In many rural towns, the local doctor is also the emergency responder, hospital doctor and aged care provider,” Dr Martin said.
“When flu spreads quickly, it doesn’t just impact individuals — it affects the whole system.
“In rural communities, we look out for each other, and this is one of the simplest ways to do that.”
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