The death of three Victorian children from influenza has increased awareness of the seriousness of the flu and led to more people being vaccinated in the region, says Border health care professionals.
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Nurse immuniser Diane Elliott, of Daintree Medical Centre, said in the wake of the deaths of the three, six and eight-year-olds, many young families were coming in especially for the vaccine.
"We're certainly seeing more young families coming in for the whole family to get done," she said.
"More elderly as well seem concerned or have been altered to risk by media attention."
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Albury Wodonga Health operation director of acute services Tracy Nesbitt said it was important everyone who could be vaccinated, got vaccinated to protect themselves and those who have an impaired immune system.
"There have been a lot deaths this year," she said.
"In the elderly influenza can be quite dangerous and for those prone respiratory illnesses can be critical."
Ms Nesbitt said it was vital those experiencing flu like symptoms see their GP.
Ms Elliott said people coming into a clinic feeling unwell should ask for a mask to protect others.
"It's important people are vigilant to best protect themselves," she said.
"The biggest thing is if you have a sore throat or are feeling cold-like symptoms try and stay indoors, not out in population, because things can spread very easily."
After an early shortage of influenza vaccines in chemists across the region, the federal health department has announced 400,000 additional vaccines should arrive in Australia this week.
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