Flu Vaccinations

Vaccine information

Influenza is a common viral infection that can be deadly to high-risk individuals. The effects of the influenza infection last for approximately a week. 

The best way to avoid the flu is to get an annual flu vaccination along with good hygiene. While some people who are vaccinated may still contract the flu, studies have shown that the flu vaccine reduces the effects of the disease. Vaccination is your protection against flu illnesses, hospitalisation and, in some cases, even death. 

The ideal time to be vaccinated is in April before peak flu season as it can take two weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective. 

Funding

Flu vaccines are free for all QLD residents under the state program until 30th September 2024

The private fee for a vaccine is $24.

Government funding is available for:

• People 65 years and over
• Children from 6 months until their 5th birthday
• All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 6 months and older
• Pregnant people
• People over 6 months with medical conditions which increase the risk of Influenza complications. For example, heart disease, severe asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes, impaired immunity. Your GP can advise you if you are in this group. 

FAQs

• Do children need a booster vaccine for flu?

  Children under 9 years, having the vaccine for the first time only, need a booster a month after the first one. All other age groups need just one dose each year

• Can I get the flu vaccine with other vaccines?

  Yes, the flu vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including COVID vaccines. This is a change from 2022.

  It is not recommended for persons receiving the over 65 flu vaccine to have the Shingrix shingles vaccine on the same day, as this combination has not been fully assessed.

• Why should I get the vaccine?

  The flu vaccination:

  · Is a safe vaccine that is inexpensive and, for many people, free.

  · Has been available for decades in Australia and is well understood and researched.

  · Helps to prevent serious illness and death in vulnerable groups.

  · Entry to residential age care facilities requires up to date flu vaccination.

  · Most people with the flu feel very unwell and require at least a week off work or school.

  · COVID safety advice helped reduce flu cases last year. As these rules relax, flu will again be transmitted easily from person to person, causing a surge in cases in 2022.

  Getting your flu vaccine every year reduces your risk of contracting influenza illnesses.

• How does the flu vaccine work?

  Influenza vaccines cause antibodies to develop in your body usually around two weeks after the vaccine has been given. Antibodies are your immune system’s way of protecting you against infection when influenza viruses are circulating.

• What are the possible side effects of the vaccine?

  · Up to 10% of people may get some soreness, redness and swelling at the injection site

  · 1-10% of people may get mild fever, aches, and pains for 1-2 days.

  · Very rarely, allergic reactions can occur, and our clinic staff are trained to recognise and treat this situation.

• When is the flu vaccine NOT recommended?

  · People who have had anaphylaxis after a previous flu vaccine.

  · People who have had anaphylaxis to any of the constituents of the vaccine.

  · Anyone who has developed Guillain-Barre syndrome within 6 weeks of a previous dose of the flu vaccine.

  · It should not be given if someone is unwell with another infection.

  Your regular GP will be happy to answer any questions about whether the vaccine is suitable for you.