Protect yourself this winter with a flu vaccination
As we continue to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever for you to protect yourself against other seasonal illnesses like influenza. As we enter peak flu season, influenza vaccinations are now available for all students. Book today to give yourself the best chance of staying flu‑free this winter.
Why you should get the flu shot
While the vaccine won’t protect you against COVID-19, it will reduce your risk of flu, which kills hundreds of people every year and leads to thousands more hospitalisations. Symptoms of the flu can last for several weeks, and include fever, aches and pains, headache, fatigue, chills and sweats.
We strongly encourage you to get a flu vaccination as soon as possible, for a number of reasons:
- Getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time could make you very ill.
- The flu virus is constantly changing – so even if you were vaccinated last year, the protection provided by the previous year’s vaccine diminishes over time.
- Getting the flu vaccine will ease pressure on Australia’s health system – fewer cases of influenza will free up time and resources to deal with COVID-19.
You’re eligible for a FREE flu vaccination if you’re a student living on residences (register your interest at DRS reception) or an international student who holds OSHC cover.
For all other students the cost is $20, which is a small price to pay for your health and peace of mind.
How to get your flu shot
- Book your appointment online – select the flu vaccination appointment option for your campus. You can also phone your campus Medical Centre:
- Burwood – 9244 5577
- Waterfront – 5247 9312
- Waurn Ponds – 5227 1221
- Warrnambool – 5563 3256.
- When attending campus, please go straight to the Medical Centre and follow all staff instructions. Physical distancing measures will be in place.
- Anyone getting a flu shot must wear a face mask. We have limited stocks of masks, so please source and bring your own if possible.
- If on the day of your appointment you’re not feeling well, you have been tested for COVID-19 or have been in contact with a suspected or confirmed case, please do NOT attend.
You can also go to your GP or your local pharmacy for a flu shot, but call ahead to check they have stock as sometimes community demand outweighs supply.
Five simple tips to keep you healthy this winter
- Don’t go out if you feel sick or unwell – rest and recover at home.
- Cough into your elbow rather than your hands, as you’ll be less likely to spread germs when touching other objects.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water after using the bathroom, and before touching or eating food.
- Eat a well-balanced diet, get enough sleep and maintain your usual exercise routine during winter.
- Stay warm by wearing appropriate clothing outdoors.
More flu hygiene tips can be found on the healthdirect website.
Don’t ‘soldier on’
If you do get sick, quarantine yourself and get checked out straight away.
- See a medical professional early if you’re feeling unwell. It’s very important that you don’t wait for things to get worse. You can book a free telehealth appointment with the Deakin Medical Centre or contact your local doctor.
- If you need medical assistance after hours or on weekends, call the National Home Doctor Service on 13SICK (13 74 25) – they operate 24 hours a day and can visit you at your home (service not available in Warrnambool, so contact your local doctor for after-hours assistance).
- If you can’t get to a doctor, contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
- If you suspect you may have COVID-19, call the dedicated 24-hour hotline on 1800 675 398 or visit the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services coronavirus website.
More information
- Email us at [email protected] and a nurse will respond during business hours.
- Visit our vaccinations webpage.