OLDER Yanchep and Gingin residents can now get a shingles vaccine for free.
Also residents aged 71 to 79-years-old can take advantage of a free single catch up dose available until October 31, 2021.
The vaccine – herpes-zoster (Shingles) (Zostavax®) – is one provided free to older Australians under the National Immunisation Program.
Others are influenza (flu) and pneumococcal polysaccharide (23vPPV).
Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples 50 years and over can also have pneumococcal polysaccharide (23vPPV).
The Federal Government’s Department of Health Immunise Australia Program website said people in these age groups were at high risk from influenza and pneumococcal disease and the complications they could cause.
“The great majority of deaths from these two diseases occur in these age groups,’’ the website said.
“People over 65 years are also advised to have dTpa, a diphtheria-tetanus-whooping cough booster, if they have not received one in the previous 10 years, although this is not funded under the NIP.’’
See your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss the free vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program.
“It is important to note that while the vaccines are provided free, there may be a consultation fee.
“Some older Australians accessing the pneumococcal vaccination program may need a second dose of the vaccine five years after the first, specifically Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with an increased risk of invasive pneumococcal disease.
“The influenza (flu) vaccine or flu shot needs to be given each year as the types of influenza virus circulating changes.’’
