NSW Health is urging those yet to have their flu shot to do so now, with the latest weekly tally of confirmed flu cases showing the flu season has not yet arrived.

Dr Jeremy McAnulty, Director Health Protection NSW Health, said the latest Influenza Surveillance Weekly Report shows just 53 confirmed flu cases for the week ending 10 June, around a quarter of the 404 cases this time last year, and lower than last week’s tally of 80.

“There is still no indication the flu season is starting, with the number of flu cases continuing to fall through June,” Dr McAnulty said.

“Vaccination is your best defence against flu so if you’re yet to have your flu shot call ahead to your GP to check they have the right vaccine for you.

“It’s also important to maintain healthy hygiene habits – coughing and sneezing into your elbow, washing hands regularly and saying home when sick – to prevent the spread of flu and other viruses.”

The NSW Government is spending a record $22.75 million on state-wide immunisation programs in 2017-18. This includes $3.5 million for free flu shots to children up to five years of age and a $1.75 million immunisation and influenza prevention campaign.

NSW Health will continue to closely monitor flu case numbers and will issue an Influenza Surveillance Weekly Report every Friday to keep the community up to date on influenza activity.

The Influenza Surveillance Weekly Reports can be viewed on Influenza Surveillance Report.