WA's swine flu influenza vaccination program will start next Wednesday, with vaccination clinics to operate in Wanneroo, Midvale, Canning and Kwinana until October 9.
From October 12 to 16, clinics will be held at Mirrabooka, Beechboro, Armadale and Success.
The vaccine will be given as a single dose to adults and children 10 years and over.
A vaccine should become available for children, aged 6 months to 10 years, later.
Health Minister Kim Hames said parents and guardians of infants under six months (who are too young to be vaccinated) should be vaccinated early.
“The vaccine will primarily be available from traditional vaccination providers including GPs and Aboriginal Medical Services across the State, and community health clinics in rural and remote areas,” Dr Hames said.
“Preventing people from getting human swine flu through vaccination is a priority. There is enough vaccine for everyone.
“I encourage people to protect themselves and their families by being vaccinated.
“But I would particularly urge those most at risk of severe outcomes to be vaccinated as soon as possible after the program commences.”
At risk people include pregnant women, indigenous people and people with underlying medical conditions including chronic respiratory disease, diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, severe obesity and conditions that suppress the immune system.
Dr Hames said the vaccine was free but some GPs might charge a consultation fee, most of which could be claimed on Medicare.
For further details call the Pandemic Flu hotline on 180 2007 or visit: http://www.health.wa.gov.au/swine_flu.