News

Stop flu this winter!

May 8, 2023

Influenza (also called flu) is a very contagious viral infection of the airways. It affects people of all ages but is especially serious for older people as well as young children and babies, pregnant women, and people with underlying chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma. Influenza can require hospitalisation and can even cause death.

Flu vaccine

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect you from serious disease caused by influenza. Influenza vaccines are given each year to protect against the most common strains of the virus. This is in addition to routine boosters for COVID-19 (depending on your age and risk group).

Who can get the flu vaccine?

The influenza vaccine is FREE under the National Immunisation Program for:

  • People aged 65 years or over.
  • People who have medical conditions which put them at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell (such as cardiac disease, chronic respiratory conditions, chronic neurological conditions, immunocompromising conditions, diabetes and other metabolic disorders, renal disease, and haematological disorders).
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
  • Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
  • Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.

People who are not eligible for a free vaccine can purchase the vaccine from their vaccination provider. Aged care and other health workers may be required to get an influenza vaccine as part of their conditions of employment.

Bulli Medical Practice offers regular flu clinics that can be booked by calling the practice on 4284 4622. There are also flu vaccine appointments that can be booked with the practice nurses (Alexandria Pritchard, Victoria Wright and Sofia Fairbrother) via Hot Doc. Alternatively, flu vaccines can be administered as part of your next appointment with your GP.

When should I get the flu vaccine?

Annual influenza vaccine should occur anytime from April onwards to be protected for the peak flu season, which is generally June to September. The highest level of protection occurs in the first 3 to 4 months following vaccination. However, it is never too late to vaccinate since influenza can circulate in the community all year round.

Influenza vaccines can be given on the same day with a COVID-19 vaccine. There is no set timeframe to wait between having a COVID-19 infection and having the influenza vaccine.