The Tasmanian Government must set out its plan to ensure that the impact of the COVID-19 crisis is not worsened by an outbreak of seasonal flu in Tasmania.
Shadow Minister for Health Sarah Lovell said steps taken by the Federal Government to obtain flu vaccine will only deliver enough for half of Australia's population.
"Doctors will have to prioritise those most at risk, including the elderly, vulnerable Tasmanians and health care workers.
"That leaves a large proportion of Tasmania's population unprotected from flu at the same time we are seeing the start of community transmission of COVID-19.
"We can't assume that social distancing will be enough to protect us."
Labor's candidate for the Legislative Council seat of Huon, Dr Bastian Seidel, said the Royal College of General Practitioners is urging all Australians to be vaccinated.
"Australians are being urged to get their flu vaccine - and get it early - to protect themselves ahead of the flu season, and to reduce pressure on the health system. This will not be possible unless extra supplies can be obtained.
"We need to know what plan the Tasmanian Government has in place to ensure the state receives adequate quantities of the vaccine to provide broad coverage.
"We must avoid a situation where people are at risk of contracting both seasonal flu and COVID-19.
"Not only would that give rise to very concerning individual and community health outcomes, it would put unsustainable pressure on our hospitals."
Sarah Lovell
Shadow Minister for Health
Bastian Seidel
Labor Candidate for Legislative Council seat of Huon
