FLU VACCINE INFORMATION 2023
Flu vaccines are now available. We recommend them to everyone but especially to those in high risk groups.
How to book a Flu vaccine appointment
Book online! This year we are encouraging online bookings for flu vaccines.
Flu vaccine appointments 2023
Free seasonal flu vaccines are funded for the following groups at higher risk of complications from influenza:
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- all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- all children aged 6 months to less than 5 years of age (including Aboriginal and medically at risk)
- all individuals aged 5 years and over with medical risk conditions, namely:
- cardiac disease, including cyanotic congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure
- chronic respiratory conditions, including suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severe asthma
- other chronic illnesses requiring regular medical follow up or hospitalisation in the previous year, including diabetes mellitus, chronic metabolic diseases, chronic renal failure, and haemoglobinopathies
- chronic neurological conditions that impact on respiratory function, including multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and seizure disorders
- impaired immunity, including HIV, malignancy and chronic steroid use
- all pregnant women (influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy)
- all people aged 65 years and over
Flu vaccines are still important
Our doctors recommend that everyone consider a flu vaccine to protect yourself from what can be a serious illness.
| Category | In stock? | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Aged 65 and over | YES | Govt funded |
| Aged under 5 | YES | Govt funded |
| Aged 5-65 with a chronic condition | YES | Govt funded |
| Aged 5-65 with no medical condition | YES | $27.50 |
Key Summary Information For 2023
- Have your flu vaccine when it becomes available.
- Some people have suggested a booster dose might be needed if you have the vaccine very early, but we don’t recommend that. There is currently insufficient evidence on whether to recommend a booster dose for those vaccinated early in the season.
- Over 65s receive a different formulation, to promote a stronger immune response in the body. All vaccines, including the over-65 version, are quadrivalent (four strains included).
- Young children should be vaccinated. There is a strong push to ensure as many children as possible receive their vaccine, and the government funds vaccines for those aged 6 months to 5 years.
- Pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and those with chronic conditions remain a high priority for vaccination. Vaccinating yourself during pregnancy also protects your baby when it is born.