Dear Patient

Are you at risk from complications of seasonal influenza?  With the colder months upon us, it is important you guard yourself against the seasonal influenza particularly if you are in a high risk group. Remember that staying out of the sun reduces your Vitamin D level and this can lead to an increased risk of colds and flu. Vaccinations are important in reducing your risk of Flu and related diseases.

Fluvax

Influenza is an epidemic disease that causes widespread illness every year. Immunisation is recommended for people aged over 65, hospital patients, residents in nursing homes or other care facilities, health care workers, severe asthmatics and anyone with a chronic illness. Pregnant women should also be immunised against the flu. Serious side effects or allergic reactions to the vaccine are rare. 

Pneumovax

Pneumococcal disease comprises a range of infections and can be life-threatening.  People over the age of 65 years are at a higher risk of contracting pneumococcal disease. Vaccination is recommended. If you were vaccinated in the round of vaccinations five years ago, it is now time to be revaccinated.

• persons aged 65 years and older;
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and older; and
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15-49 years who fit the criteria for high risk groups as recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council in the current edition of the Australian Immunisation Handbook. 

Influenza vaccines are also available for those who do not fit the above criteria. Private fees may apply. Please phone our Hornsby clinic on 94825400 to discuss.

Vitamin D supplementation

Vitamin D is a hormone essential for many functions of the body and has been shown to assist in preventing flu. Vitamin D is naturally made in the skin as a response to exposure to the suns UV rays. As we age the production of vitamin D in the skin reduces, we also spend less time outside and have become better with applying sunscreens. For these reasons it is vital to have your Vitamin D levels checked regularly and supplement Vitamin D intake as required.   

Southern Sun Skin Cancer Clinic Hornsby is now also Southern Sun General Practice. Our doctors are all highly qualified and experienced general practitioners who are more than happy to provide you with your required vaccinations and vitamin D testing as well as other general practice services as required. Southern Sun General Practice offers a range of services including Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Family and Children’s Health, immunisations, minor procedures and Nutritional Health.

The risks and benefits of vaccination or any procedures should be discussed with your doctor.

Please phone 94825400 for more information or to arrange an appointment.

Kind Regards

The Southern Sun Healthcare Team