SWINE flu is expected to be the dominant strain of influenza this year with residents urged to take up the offer of free vaccinations as a precaution.
Brimbank Council's health unit is offering, by appointment, two vaccination sessions in Sydenham and Sunshine West this month.
A specialist influenza clinic was set up in Deer Park last June to treat patients worried about swine flu, but it closed due to a lack of demand.
ISIS chief executive Terry O'Bryan said the clinic was closed as the patient load had dropped to fewer than 10 people a day from the 160 who attended initially.
Last year's outbreak of the H1N1 virus started in Mexico and spread worldwide. It typically attacked younger people, causing more hospitalisations and admissions than the seasonal flu. Experts anticipate a second wave of the virus this year.
Council spokeswoman Marian Ali urged people not previously vaccinated to take up the offer.
The vaccination sessions will be at the Salvation Army Church Hall in Sydenham this Thursday and at the Glengala Community Hall in Sunshine West on May11 from 6-8pm.
Appointments: phone immunisation co-ordinator Kris Gazzard on 92494919.
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