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The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe illness, even in healthy people. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get vaccinated every year.

Why get vaccinated?

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.

Government-Funded (Free) Flu Vaccines

Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is provided free of charge to people who are at higher risk of complications from the flu.

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).
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.
  • 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).

Please talk to our doctors or nurses if you are unsure about your eligibility.

Special Vaccines for Over 65s

If you are aged 65 or over, you will receive a specific “enhanced” flu vaccine. This vaccine is designed to stimulate a stronger immune response, providing better protection for older immune systems compared to the standard vaccine.

Private Flu Vaccines

If you do not qualify for a government-funded vaccine, you can still receive your flu shot at Warrandyte Road Clinic.

  • Cost: A private fee applies for the vaccine itself.
  • Consultation: If you are attending a dedicated “Flu Clinic” session solely for the vaccine, the consultation is typically bulk-billed for Medicare cardholders.

When to get vaccinated

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.