In line with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recommendations these Clinics will commence later than usual, so as to provide maximum protection for the peak Australian Flu season, usually between June and September. It is important to note that there is new evidence that the effectiveness of the influenza vaccine diminishes over time.
The 2018 seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for everyone from six months of age.
The vaccine is available free under the National Immunisation Program for people who face a high risk from influenza and its complications.
These include:
- People aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait people aged six months to less than five years
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are aged 15 years and over
- Pregnant women
- People aged six months and over with medical conditions such as severe asthma, lung or heart disease, low immunity or diabetes that can lead to complications from influenza.
For those not eligible for a free immunisation under the National Immunisation Program, the vaccine will be available privately at a cost of $20.
There are also two new free, and more effective vaccines, specifically for those aged 65 and over. This is aimed at improving the immune response in elderly people.
Please phone to make an appointment in the flu clinic. If you need to make an appointment with your usual doctor for another issue, they can ensure you get your flu injection at the same time.