THE flu season is taking its toll on the frail and elderly with residents of Victorian aged care facilities some of the hardest hit by this year's flu season.
There have been 177 recorded respiratory outbreaks well over double the 77 recorded in 2016.
Victoria is currently hitting the peak of one of its worst flu seasons, with hospitals and ambulances under increasing pressure from sick patients.
The flu season started earlier this year and so far there have been more than 10,000 confirmed cases of with many more notifications still expected.
High risk groups include the elderly, infants, those with chronic conditions such as heart or lung disease, renal failure, diabetes and chronic neurological conditions, the immuno-compromised, pregnant women, smokers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Victoria's Chief Health Officer, Charles Guest has called on all Victorians to take steps to protect their health and stop the spread of flu. It was not too late to get a flu shot, he said.
"Busy emergency departments like the Royal Children's are facing increasing demand as we hit the peak of the winter flu season," Professor Guest said.
"In an emergency, you should always call 000. However, for less urgent cases people are encouraged to visit their local GP, talk to a pharmacist or call Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24.
"Nurse-On-Call (1300-60-60-24) is available 24 hours a day and Victoria now also has 12 Supercare Pharmacies."
Professor Guest said the flu is a highly contagious viral infection, spread by contact with fluids from coughs and sneezes.
"The most common symptoms of the flu are sudden high fever, a dry cough, body aches, and feeling very tired and weak," Professor Guest said.
"Infections in children may also be associated with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Croup is also common in children.
"Most symptoms resolve within seven days, although the cough may persist for longer. Complications of influenza include middle ear infections, secondary bacterial pneumonia and worsening of underlying chronic health conditions.
"Most otherwise healthy adults will be able to infect other people up to seven days after becoming sick.
"Therefore, anyone sick with the flu should avoid visiting loved ones in aged care or in hospital, as it can spread quickly and be very serious for people most at risk such as the elderly."
Professor Guest said better hand washing is one of the most important ways to reduce the spread of infectious diseases such as the flu.
"It is also important to practice good cough etiquette at all times. This includes covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and disposing of tissues immediately," Professor Guest said.
