OBERON is feeling the effects as influenza hits the region hard.
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There have now been 1129 cases in the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) this year - a big jump on the total of 229 cases across the health district just six weeks ago.
But it's never too late to get vaccinated.
"The WNSWLHD is seeing a higher than usual influenza activity across the district, which is in line with activity across Australia," a WNSWLHD spokesperson said.
IN OTHER NEWS AROUND OBERON:
Columbia Aged Care facility in Oberon has reported 10 cases of Influenza A at its facility on Albion Street over the past two weeks.
Columbia's operations general manager Mariann Anderson said they have taken all precautions as advised from NSW Health.
"Those clients affected were advised to rest and not to take part in any activities. We took all precautions and implemented our infectious control plan," she said.
"We also advised relatives not to visit if they were feeling unwell. Our company provides free flu shots for staff and it is not too late for anyone to get vaccinated."
A spokesperson from Oberon Hospital said the numbers presenting at the facility are up on last year.
"Over the weekends we are averaging two cases, with more admitted through advice from the local medical centre during the week," the spokesperson said.
"It's been very busy, with a higher number presenting with respiratory illnesses and influenza-like illness."
The WNSWLHD is encouraging people to get their flu shot, which reduces their risk of catching the flu and makes symptoms less severe if they do.
Nationally, there have been more than 131,000 flu cases reported and almost 300 deaths.
"Everyone is being encouraged to get the flu vaccination each year. It's never too late while influenza is circulating," a spokesperson said.
There are a number of people who can receive the influenza vaccination free of charge: children aged six months to five years, Aboriginal people, pregnant women, people with serious underlying health conditions, and people aged 65 years and older.