Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory infection caused by viruses. Three main types of viruses cause flu, these are influenza A, influenza B and influenza C.

General flu symptoms include:

  • fever (38.5*C and higher)
  • cough
  • headache
  • muscle and joint pain
  • severe malaise (feeling unwell)
  • a sore throat 
  • runny nose.

Early immunisation against the flu is recommended for individuals aged six months and older. 

The National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides free immunisations for:

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged six months and over
  • children aged six months to under five  years
  • pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
  • people aged 65 years or over
  • people aged six months or over who have medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of getting serious disease, including:
    • cardiac disease
    • chronic respiratory conditions
    • chronic neurological conditions
    • immunocompromising conditions
    • diabetes and other metabolic disorders
    • renal disease
    • haematological disorders
    • children aged six months to 10 years on long-term aspirin therapy

Flu vaccines under the National Immunisation Program are expected to be available from April 2023. Some states and Territories offer free vaccines to others not included in the above list. Speak with your vaccination provider to find out if you can access a free vaccine. It is recommended that individuals ineligible for a free flu vaccine still get vaccinated.

In most states, you can receive flu vaccines from your general practice clinic, pharmacy, Aboriginal medical services, community health centres and local council immunisation clinics (check your state or territory).

You should consider getting your flu vaccine earlier rather than later to ensure you are protected going into the peak flu season, generally from June – September. Flu vaccines are safe to receive with your COVID-19 booster and can be administered on the same day.

You should discuss any questions about the flu vaccine, allergies, or side effects with your vaccination provider.  

For more information, you can visit:

https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine

This information is not medical advice and should be used as a guide only. Contact your local GP or health professional if you are concerned about any symptoms you may have.