Blooms Chemist pharmacist Judy Lam says the pharmacy has already administered hundreds of vaccines to Young residents this year.

“Demand (for the vaccine) is definitely higher than last year,” Ms Lam said last week.

Explaining away the myth that the vaccine gives some people the flu Ms Lam said those that receive the vaccine have to up an immunity to it.

“It’s definitely not true that the flu shot can give you the flu,” Ms Lam said.

“It’s an inactive vaccine so it can’t cause the flu at all.

The best thing to do if you want a flu shot ahead of this year’s flu season, Ms Lam said, is to come in and see the pharmacist.

“Most people can have the shot in the pharmacy, it is only if you have allergies, especially to eggs or antibiotics, in that case the best thing is to see a doctor.

“Residents should come in and we can talk to them about having a shot,” Ms Lam said.

There is emerging evidence that the vaccine gives the most protection within the first three to four months after it is given. It’s important to make sure you are protected in time for when the flu is most common, from around June to September. 

The Australian Government recommends everyone from six months old wishing to protect themselves against the flu should get immunised.

It is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from flu; people who get vaccinated are at lower risk of getting an infection (and developing serious disease).