Locals urged to get free flu jab amid increase in hospitalisations

Locals are being urged to take advantage of the State Government's free flu vaccine program which has been extended until the end of June.

So far this year, 538 people have been hospitalised with influenza, with 34 per cent of those cases being children aged zero to nine years.

Older people, young children, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from influenza such as pneumonia.

Influenza spreads quickly from person to person. Symptoms can include fever, chills, aches, runny nose, coughing and an upset stomach. 

"With the extension of the free flu program there is still time for you to receive your flu vaccination if you haven't already," Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said.

"The peak period for influenza transmission in WA is typically from June to September, and now is also the time to make sure your COVID-19 vaccinations are up to date."

More than 565,000 West Aussies have been vaccinated against the flu so far this year.

Free vaccinations are available at GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, and participating community pharmacies throughout May and June.