The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) says influenza is placing increasing pressure on rural, remote, and First Nations health services, and low vaccination rates could make things worse.
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says too many people are putting off getting their flu shot, despite it being one of the simplest ways to protect themselves and others.
“Flu doesn’t just make you feel unwell - it can be deadly, especially for children, elders, and people with chronic conditions,” Dr Martin says.
“In small communities, one person’s decision to get vaccinated can make a real difference.
“It’s about protecting your neighbours as much as yourself.”
Recent data shows influenza is spreading earlier and more widely than in previous years, but vaccine uptake remains lower than expected.
At the same time, preventable hospitalisations in rural and remote areas continue to occur at greater rates than those in major cities.
“In many rural towns, the local doctor is also the emergency responder, hospital doctor, and aged care provider,” Dr Martin says.
“When flu spreads quickly, it doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects the whole system.”
The College is encouraging people to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, practise good hygiene, and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings.
“In rural communities, we look out for each other, and this is one of the simplest ways to do that,” Dr Martin says.
“Even if you’re healthy, you could pass the virus on to someone who’s not.
“We’re all part of the solution.”
ENDS
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says too many people are putting off getting their flu shot, despite it being one of the simplest ways to protect themselves and others.
“Flu doesn’t just make you feel unwell - it can be deadly, especially for children, elders, and people with chronic conditions,” Dr Martin says.
“In small communities, one person’s decision to get vaccinated can make a real difference.
“It’s about protecting your neighbours as much as yourself.”
Recent data shows influenza is spreading earlier and more widely than in previous years, but vaccine uptake remains lower than expected.
At the same time, preventable hospitalisations in rural and remote areas continue to occur at greater rates than those in major cities.
“In many rural towns, the local doctor is also the emergency responder, hospital doctor, and aged care provider,” Dr Martin says.
“When flu spreads quickly, it doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects the whole system.”
The College is encouraging people to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, practise good hygiene, and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings.
“In rural communities, we look out for each other, and this is one of the simplest ways to do that,” Dr Martin says.
“Even if you’re healthy, you could pass the virus on to someone who’s not.
“We’re all part of the solution.”
ENDS