We all know people in our community who are at greatest risk of suffering severe symptoms from flu include people aged over 65, and people with a medical condition.
While most residents and staff in aged care settings will already have received their annual flu shot, we can all do our bit to protect residents receiving care, ourselves, our families, and the broader community.
Queensland is recording a worse-than-usual winter flu season in 2024. Cases across the Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay and Central Queensland are high.
Free flu vaccinations are available to all Queenslanders until 30 September, and available at pharmacies or your GP.
What is influenza:
Influenza (the flu) is a highly-contagious viral infection that infects the upper airways and lungs. Fortunately, the flu vaccine offers excellent protection. Getting vaccinated against the flu protects you and the people around you, guarding against the virus in the majority of cases and substantially reducing the severity of the illness in those who do catch it.
Protect our most vulnerable
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over.
People most at risk include:
- Children aged six months to 5 years
- Pregnant women
- People aged 65 and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- People with chronic medical conditions
- People with a disability
Vaccines are still important
We understand there is vaccine fatigue in our community following the long and exhausting COVID-19 pandemic. The flu is a serious illness that can put you out of action for days or weeks at a time. It can make you really sick, especially if you are in one of the vulnerable cohorts.
Unfortunately, natural immunity is not enough to combat the flu.
Getting vaccinated against the flu every year protects you and the people around you, guarding against the virus in the majority of cases and substantially reducing the severity of the illness in those who do catch it.
Advice on getting the Influenza vaccine
Influenza vaccines can also be given on the same day with a COVID-19 vaccine. There is no set time to wait between having a COVID-19 infection and then having the influenza vaccine. Once you are feeling well and have no fever, you can get an influenza vaccine.
2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program | Queensland Health
ATAGI advice
2024 seasonal influenza vaccine
2024 influenza vaccination – Program advice for health professionals
Where can I get vaccinated?
The vaccine is free for all Queenslanders before 30 September 2024 and can be accessed at your GP or local pharmacy. If you have further questions, talk to a trusted healthcare professional.