Acting Director of Public Health Dr Scott McKeown said people needed a flu vaccine each year to be protected because flu immunity is only short lived and the mix of viruses change each year.

“A flu season happens every winter, it usually starts in July or August, so now’s the time to have your flu vaccine,” Dr McKeown said.

The latest flu figures in Tasmania show 60 notifications in June and 36 during May, most of which were influenza A.

Flu vaccine is free to protect those Tasmanians at greater risk of severe flu complications including       anyone over the age of 65, indigenous people, pregnant women and adults and children from six months of age who have chronic medical conditions.

There is good supply of the free flu vaccine for these Tasmanians.

The vaccine itself is free for people in these groups through GPs, although there may be a charge for the consultation.

Tasmanians who live or work with people at risk of developing severe flu should also consider getting the vaccine.

“As well as getting the seasonal flu vaccine, there are some simple steps we can take to help prevent the spread of flu and other common infections,” Dr McKeown said.

These include covering your mouth and nose if you are coughing or sneezing, and washing your hands regularly.

If you are unwell, stay away from work or school so you don’t spread it around.