Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It can cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, muscle aches and fatigue.

For some people, influenza can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, worsening of underlying medical conditions, hospitalisation and, rarely, death. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.

Both intramuscular flu vaccines and nasal flu vaccines are available at Warrandyte Road Clinic. Our team can advise which option is suitable for you or your child.

Influenza viruses change frequently, which is why the vaccine is updated annually to match the circulating strains. Vaccination helps:

• Protect you from getting sick.
• Reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get infected.
• Protect vulnerable people in the community (babies, the elderly and those with weak immune systems) through herd immunity.

You are eligible for a free flu shot if you are:

• Aged 65 years and over.
• Children aged 6 months to less than 5 years.
• Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy).
• People aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase the risk of severe influenza (e.g., severe asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or immunosuppression).
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.

Flu season in Australia typically peaks between June and September. We recommend getting vaccinated from April onwards to ensure you have the highest level of protection before the peak season begins.