Young children in Victoria will soon be able to get free flu shots.
Kids aged between six months and five years can get the jab from May – before the peak flu season hits.
Victoria experienced one of its worst ever flu seasons last year, with more than 48,000 confirmed influenza cases.
There were more than 3941 reports of children being struck down by the flu, compared to 871 the year prior.
In response, the state government is providing $3.5 million in funding so young children can get free flu shots at GPs or community health centres.
“Young kids can be especially vulnerable to nasty colds and flu. It’s why we’ve stepped in to make sure they’ll be protected with free flu shots ahead of winter,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.
The state government has also announced $50 million from its upcoming budget will be used to help hospitals open more beds, hire more doctors and nurses and treat more patients.
