Influenza vaccination is recommended every year for everyone aged 6 months and over. For many people it is funded free of charge under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). Here is the current eligibility list.
Free under the NIP
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years.
- All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.
- Anyone aged 5 years and over with a chronic medical condition (cardiac, respiratory, renal, neurological, immune, metabolic, including diabetes).
- People who are pregnant, at any stage.
- People aged 65 and over (an enhanced higher-dose vaccine is funded for this group).
Private otherwise
Adults who do not fit the above are eligible but pay a small fee unless their workplace covers it. Many Victorian local governments offer state-funded free flu shots during the season, watch for announcements in autumn.
Timing
Vaccinate from late March or April so that your immunity is highest as the flu season peaks (typically June to September). Annual vaccination is needed because the virus changes each year.
Where
Walk in to our pharmacy six days a week, book online, or ask your GP. If your workplace runs an annual on-site clinic, that is usually the most efficient option.
Sources & further reading
General information only. This article is educational and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Your immuniser will confirm eligibility and contraindications on the day.
TGA advertising compliance. Vaccines are referred to by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Specific brands and registered indications are discussed at the consultation.