Respiratory infections soar in WA as Australian Medical Association urges people to get COVID & flu vaccines

In Western Australia, respiratory infections like influenza, whooping cough, and COVID-19 have surged, prompting the Australian Medical Association to advocate for vaccinations, especially for at-risk groups. WA’s RSV immunisation program has significantly reduced hospitalisations among infants by over 50%, saving the health system millions. However, vaccination rates for COVID and influenza are alarmingly low, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, necessitating urgent action and expert guidance from healthcare providers.