Influenza / Flu vaccine is now available
It’s that time of year again – the 2023 flu season is upon us. With the influenza virus posing a serious threat to public health, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and those around you. One of the most effective ways to do this is by getting vaccinated against the flu.
The 2023 influenza vaccine is now available for patients of all ages. The vaccine is designed to protect against four strains of the virus that are expected to be most common during the season. While the vaccine is not 100% effective, it can help to reduce the severity of your symptoms and lower your risk of complications.
It’s important to understand that Influenza can be a serious illness, especially for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. In some cases, the flu can even be life-threatening. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also those around you who may be more vulnerable to the virus.
The influenza vaccine is safe and has been proven to be effective. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, and muscle aches. These symptoms typically go away within a few days.
If you’re considering getting vaccinated, talk to your doctor or nurse to determine which type of vaccine is best for you. For example, there are high-dose vaccines for people over 65.
Free influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP)
The following groups are eligible for a free influenza vaccine:
- All children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
- All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- All individuals aged 65 years and over
- Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
- Individuals aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase the risk of severe influenza, such as chronic respiratory or cardiac disease, immunosuppression, and diabetes.
Medical conditions with increased influenza disease complications and eligibility for a free vaccine.
| Category | Medical conditions |
| Cardiac disease | Cyanotic congenital heart disease, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease |
| Chronic respiratory conditions | Severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic emphysema |
| Chronic neurological conditions | Hereditary and degenerative CNS diseases, seizure disorders, spinal cord injuries, neuromuscular disorders |
| Immunocompromising conditions | Immunocompromised due to disease or treatment, asplenia or splenic dysfunction, HIV infection |
| Diabetes and other metabolic disorders | Type 1 or 2 diabetes, chronic metabolic disorders |
| Renal disease | Chronic renal failure |
| Haematological disorders | Haemoglobinopathies |
| Long-term aspirin therapy in children aged 5 to 10 years | These children are at increased risk of Reye syndrome following influenza infection |
For patients not eligible for the free vaccine, the private cost of the vaccine will be $30.
COVID-19 vaccine booster doses are also available. Eligible patients need to not have had COVID-19 infection or COVID-19 vaccination in the last 6 months.
Co-administration
The COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered (given on the same day) with an influenza vaccine. While this is seen as safe, it comes with a slightly higher risk of side effects such as fever.
Making a vaccine booking
Appointments for Influenza/Flu vaccination and COVID-19 vaccination can be made with the doctors and nurse online by clicking the BOOK NOW button at the top of this page or by calling 02 9817 2080.
We encourage all eligible patients to get vaccinated against both Influenza / Flu and COVID-19.
In conclusion, getting vaccinated against the flu is an important step you can take to protect yourself and those around you. With the 2023 influenza vaccine now available for patients of all ages, there’s no reason to delay getting vaccinated.
