Pharmacist and Professional Services Manager at Australian pharmacy brand Discount Drug Stores, Casey Clark, states that this year’s influenza strain is particularly aggressive and has struck down many young and healthy Australians.
“It seems that the strain that wreaked havoc in the United States earlier in the year has travelled to Australia and as a result we’re seeing people of all ages being bed ridden with the virus,” she said.
It’s why Ms Clark implemented over 100 flu vaccination clinics within Discount Drug Stores pharmacies earlier this year, helping to ensure that thousands of Australians were immunised against the virus.
The service focused pharmacy brand more than doubled the number of flu vaccinations from 2012 during the highly successful clinics and this year immunised thousands of their customers.
More businesses also took advantage of the service to ensure their employees weren’t affected by influenza with organisations such as C&K Childcare, Ikea, Lottery West and Holden booking into the clinics.
Ms Clark states the increase in the number of Australians getting the flu vaccine is positive to see and hopes that it’s a sign that people are starting to take the virus more seriously.
“I think the results of this year’s clinics have shown that there’s been a change in the way people perceive the flu,” she said. “There’s not so much of that attitude that, like a cold, you’ll just get over it after a few days. People are thankfully listening to their doctors and pharmacists and are realising just how dangerous and debilitating the flu really is.”
However, whilst Ms Clark states that more Australians getting vaccinated against the flu is a step in the right direction, she adds that people need to also better understand the other smaller, but still fundamental, preventative measures they must take as well.
“Getting the influenza vaccine is absolutely important but what people need to realise is that it’s only the first step to avoiding the flu,” she said. “They need to also be proactive during flu season about keeping their immune system strong.
“So this means making sure you’re drinking lots of fluids, are washing your hands frequently and are avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth as germs spread this way,” Ms Clark continued. “These small things can make all the difference.”
In addition to these small steps, Ms Clark also advises that Australians avoid visiting or being around people who have the flu, use alcohol-based rubs when they can’t wash their hands and clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
Through heeding this advice, Australians will be giving themselves and their loved ones, the best chance of beating influenza this flu season. However, should people still come down with the virus, Ms Clark states there are a number of ways to tackle it before it becomes dangerous.
“Simple recovery tactics such as getting more sleep and drinking plenty of water will help lessen the intensity of the flu, while taking zinc supplements or garlic can help boost your immune system, as well as many other vitamins,” Ms Clark says.
“Many people may not realise that their toothbrush can be a breeding ground for germs, so sterilizing it or replacing it is another way to help fight the flu.”
For more information on how to avoid or beat the flu, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au or speak to your local Discount Drug Store pharmacist.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au
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