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Flu warning as winter draws to a close

August 14, 2024 6:57 am in by
File image [Pexels]

The Geelong region has seen a 35 per cent increase in flu cases this year and local doctors are warning the season is far from over.

Data shows there have been 1757 reported cases of Influenza so far in 2024, compared to 1268 this time last year and 1795 for the whole of 2023.

Dr Mark Hayes from Barwon Health said it was still important to get vaccinated, despite winter drawing to a close.

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“It’s heading to the pointy end, a very important part of the year for many people,” Dr Hayes said.

“Students going through VCE – we don’t want them getting sick during those important months.

“So it’s very important for people to consider still getting the vaccination.”

Dr Hayes said it was not uncommon to see patients with more severe symptoms and symptoms lasting longer.

“Two weeks, sometimes even three weeks with symptoms is not uncommon at the moment,” he said.

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