Stay healthy this winter

Flu vaccinations

 Victorians are being urged to prepare for the upcoming surge in seasonal respiratory illnesses.

Public health experts warn that lower case numbers earlier in the season means Victoria will see a late winter spike.

It’s not too late to get a flu or COVID-19 vaccination to protect yourself and your loved ones, and to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Victorians are being encouraged to save EDs and Triple Zero for the sickest patients.

Urgent Care Clinics

Open late seven days a week, Victoria’s 38 Urgent Care Clinics also offer care for free, without a Medicare card.

Staffed by GPs and nurses, they treat a range of cases such as sprains, broken bones, cuts, and mild infections.

Chemist Care Now

As well as vaccinations, Victorians can also access care at one of 900 pharmacies participating in the Chemist Care Now program.

It helps people avoid a trip to the GP for conditions like uncomplicated UTIs or musculoskeletal pain, as well as a prescription for the oral contraceptive pill.

Since launching, highly trained pharmacists across the state have delivered almost 100,000 services, the majority to women.

Virtual Emergency Department

The Virtual Emergency Department connects Victorians with emergency doctors and nurses via video call, 24/7.

This free service provides fast and convenient access to advice from clinicians without any need to leave home.

Since launching in 2020, the Virtual ED has delivered more than 900,000 consultations.

In the past year, around 83 per cent of patients who used the service avoided an unnecessary trip to hospital.

Nurse-on-call

Nurse-on-call also offers 24/7 care, with registered nurses providing immediate, expert advice.

Victorians should call Triple Zero in emergencies, but non-urgent cases may be directed to alternative care options.

Information on Victoria’s urgent care services and immunisations can be found at betterhealth.vic.gov.au.