Influenza vaccination
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended from 6 months of age
Ask about the current season before booking. Vaccination remains available when clinically appropriate and stock is available.
What it is, and why it matters
Influenza is a contagious respiratory infection. Fever, cough, sore throat, aches and tiredness can start suddenly. It can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications, especially in young children, older adults, pregnancy and people with certain medical conditions.
Influenza circulates throughout the year, with activity often increasing in winter. Vaccination is one part of prevention, alongside staying home when unwell, ventilation and hand hygiene.
How flu vaccination works
Influenza vaccination is recommended each year because circulating strains and vaccine protection change over time. The immuniser selects an age-appropriate option after checking health conditions and previous reactions.
Australian 2026 seasonal vaccines target three influenza strains. Different options have different age limits and precautions. The options suitable during pregnancy differ from those available to some other age groups.
Individual assessment. This general information does not determine which vaccination is suitable for you. Your clinician discusses the available options, benefits, risks, timing and funding before you decide.
Funding and eligibility for flu vaccination
Anchored to the National Immunisation Program schedule and ATAGI advice. Your immuniser confirms your eligibility at the pre-vaccination consultation.
Adults aged 65 and over
Annual vaccination for people who hold, or are eligible for, Medicare.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
Annual vaccination, subject to Medicare eligibility.
Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
Annual vaccination, subject to Medicare eligibility. Young children need an age-authorised provider.
Pregnant people, at any stage
Vaccination during pregnancy, subject to Medicare eligibility.
People with specified medical risk conditions
The immuniser checks the condition against NIP criteria. Not every chronic condition qualifies.
Other people aged 6 months and over
Vaccination is recommended, but funding and workplace arrangements need to be checked.
Doses and timing
Schedules below reflect typical recommendations. Your immuniser will confirm exactly what applies to you, including any catch-up doses and co-administration with other vaccines.
- Most people receive one dose each year. In 2026, healthy children aged 6 months to under 2 years having influenza vaccination for the first time need two doses at least four weeks apart.
- Children aged 6 months to under 9 years with specified medical risk conditions having their first influenza vaccination need two doses at least four weeks apart. The provider checks previous doses and any other special circumstances.
- Vaccination is offered before the influenza season and can still be useful while influenza is circulating. During pregnancy, discuss vaccination at any stage, including if vaccinated before becoming pregnant.
What to expect
- Temporary injection-site discomfort, tiredness, headache, muscle aches or fever can occur. Reactions depend on the option used and the person.
- A severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or relevant component requires specialist assessment. Stay for the recommended observation period, usually at least 15 minutes.
Precautions
- Tell the immuniser about previous serious reactions, medicines, immune conditions, pregnancy and any current illness before vaccination.
- Egg allergy alone does not usually prevent influenza vaccination, but tell the immuniser about all previous reactions so the appropriate setting and option can be selected.
Benefits, limitations and individual advice
Vaccination reduces the risk of influenza and its complications. Protection varies with age, health, circulating strains and time since vaccination, and does not prevent every infection.
FAQs about flu vaccination
Can I have influenza vaccination during pregnancy?
Influenza vaccination is recommended during pregnancy, at any stage. The immuniser selects an option suitable for pregnancy and checks your vaccination history.
Can I have another vaccination at the same visit?
Many vaccines can be given at the same visit. The immuniser checks the particular combination, your age and your health before agreeing a plan.
Can my young child be vaccinated here?
The national recommendation starts at 6 months, but pharmacy authorisation and service age limits are separate. Contact the pharmacy to confirm an appropriate provider for your child.
Book your flu vaccination
Contact the pharmacy to check service availability, suitability and booking options.
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