South Australia had its worst start to a flu season in five years, prompting the Opposition to intensify calls for the Malinauskas Labor Government to commit to a free flu vaccination blitz.
SA Health data shows, there have been 5,125 cases of the flu recorded in South Australia so far this year — around 1,700 more than the same time last year.
Leader of the Opposition, Vincent Tarzia is urging the Government to adopt this common-sense initiative and put the health of South Australians above politics.
“We called on the Government in March because the warning signs were there then. Now, we’re a day away from the start of winter and flu numbers are going through the roof,” Mr Tarzia said.
“Our hospital system is already under immense pressure, with record levels of ramping and some of the worst emergency department waiting times in the country according to the Productivity Commission – the last thing that’s needed is additional patients battling the flu.”
A month-long free-flu vaccination blitz would allow South Australians over six months old to receive a vaccination, not only protecting themselves, but others in the community too.
The initiative is backed by the Pharmacy Guild of SA and is highly successful in other jurisdictions such as Western Australia and Queensland, who run similar programs.
Shadow Minister for Health, Ashton Hurn said opening up free-flu vaccinations to all South Australians would alleviate pressure in the health system and reduce hip-pocket pain during a cost-of-living crisis too.
“Flu cases are already higher now than at this time last year and the years before that, so Peter Malinauskas should be pulling every lever possible to keep South Australians safe and out of our emergency departments,” Mrs Hurn said
“We need every line of defence up and running to protect South Australians and the health system as we head into winter, especially given the spike in case numbers over the past two months.
“Not only would this help reduce pressure in our health system, it would also remove cost as a barrier for families – in fact it would save a family of four $100.”
