Medibank says it is seeing a strong take up of its influenza vaccine program, with more than double the number of customers registering for the service compared to last year.
The company offers flu vaccines for all eligible customers through its Live Better program.
Medibank group executive Milosh Milisavljevic said, “The cost of a single influenza vaccine is around $25 for those aged between 5 and 65 which adds up if you’re needing to vaccinate your family, especially with cost-of-living pressures.
“Eligible Medibank customers don’t need to worry about the cost of having to vaccinate themselves for influenza.”
Medibank medical director Dr Jessica Choong said the statistics were encouraging and urged people to get the flu vaccine, where clinically appropriate, to help protect themselves and the community.
“It’s fantastic that we’re seeing so many people wanting to get the flu vaccine this year – the more people who are vaccinated, the less people we will see seriously unwell with influenza,” said Dr Choong.
“Influenza can be dangerous particularly for vulnerable people, such as babies and toddlers, pregnant women and the elderly, so it’s important that we all play our part to not only help protect ourselves but those around us.
“There was a resurgence of influenza virus in Australia last year due to the reopening of international borders and travel, and we’re expecting that to continue this winter, so it’s important that those who are eligible to be vaccinated roll up their sleeves and get the vaccine.”
Eligible Medibank customers can schedule a flu vaccination and pay no out-of-pocket costs. Members need to redeem the flu vaccination voucher via the Live Better rewards store and then book in at participating Amcal pharmacies, Guardian pharmacies and Myhealth Medical Centres. Each eligible customer can redeem up to two flu vaccine vouchers – one for you and one for a family member.