Vaccine ineffective against deadly ‘ Brisbane B’ strain but... Second jab warning
A TEENAGE girl has been charged with multiple offences, including two counts of seriously assaulting police.
Police allege three girls entered a liquor store in Bamford Lane, Kirwan, about 5.30pm on Saturday.
They were told to leave by staff because of their age.
It is alleged they then took bottles of booze and failed to pay before leaving in a taxi.
Police later arrested a 15year- old girl in Accord St, Rasmussen. She allegedly became aggressive and punched a male officer in the throat and kicked a female officer in the leg.
The Kelso girl has been charged with stealing, fare evasion, contravene police requirement and two counts of serious assault police. A Kelso girl, 16, has also been charged with stealing and fare evasion. THE Federal Government’s free flu vaccine for the elderly does not protect against a deadly strain of the flu.
But health authorities are warning there could be a greater danger in doubling up on the jabs as people scramble to protect themselves.
Originating in Brisbane, the “Brisbane B” virus was named the deadliest in the world by the World Health Organisation last year and is included in this season’s four- strain vaccination, along with the A strain ( H1N1), the Singapore A and Phuket B strain.
But over- 65s have been receiving a three- strain vaccination that does not cover Brisbane B, with many doubling up on jabs against Queensland Health recommendations as they seek full protection.
Townsville Public Health Unit director Dr Steven Donohue said this was unnecessary as the trivalent flu vaccine was the best form of protection for older Queenslanders.
“Older people do not respond as well to the standard influenza vaccine as the immune system response to influenza vaccine decreases with age,” he said.
“Their enhanced vaccine is designed specifically to increase the immune system’s response to vaccine, especially against influenza A ( H3N2) strain, which is more common and severe in people aged 65 and older.”
Dr Donohue said Queensland Health did not recommend having the two vaccines.
“Strains included in various vaccines are determined nationally and include the toppriority strains,” he said.
In 2017, the number of presented flu cases at Townsville Hospital was more than double 2016’ s figures. There have been 583 cases so far this year, an increase from last year’s 516.
Fairfield Central Medical Practice principal and Royal Australian College of General Practitioners deputy chair Dr Michael Clements said the government- funded vaccine protected against the three strongest strains of the flu, which were potentially deadly for elderly people.
“The private one does cover four strains, but they are not the best ones for the over- 65s population we are targeting,” he said.
Mr Clements said the most important thing residents could do was consult a GP about their options.