Get your 2021 flu shot

Influenza remains the most common preventable infectious disease in Australia. While it tends to cause mild symptoms, it can also cause very serious illness in otherwise healthy people and lead to hospitalisation and even death. However, it’s never too late to vaccinate, as influenza can circulate all year round.

 

Who should get a flu vaccine in 2021? 

The Australian Government recommends everyone aged six months and over be immunised.

Those working in aged care homes or long-term care facilities, healthcare workers, early childhood educators and those who live or work with someone at high risk of serious illness from the flu, are also urged to immunise.

People who get vaccinated are at lower risk of getting a flu infection (and developing serious disease) than those who don’t.

The national immunisation program provides free flu shots to eligible people including those over 65 and under five; pregnant women, people with medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, severe asthma and kidney disease; and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders from six months of age.

Where to get your flu vaccine

People over 65 years of age are advised to see their GP to organise the stronger over-65 vaccine under the national immunisation program. Current guidelines stipulate a 14-day gap between a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccination and GPs can help patients understand which one they should get first, says the Australian Medical Association.

Chemist Warehouse is also again offering flu vaccinations at in-store clinics this year for $14.99, in a process that is convenient, quick and affordable.

Experts believe that vaccinating as many people in australia as soon as possible was also a priority. The focus is seen to be getting as many people vaccinated as quick as possible.