There was a resurgence of influenza arising from the reopening of international borders in 2022. This influenza activity is expected to continue in 2023, and annual vaccination the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications.
Who can have the Flu vaccine
The flu vaccine is recommended for all people 6 months of age and older. However, the National Immunisation Program (NIP) only funds the vaccine for certain individuals at higher risk of complications from influenza. High-risk groups that are eligible for FREE FLU vaccines include:
- all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- all children aged 6 months to less than 5 years of age
- 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 (COPD), severe asthma (for which frequent medical consultations or the use of multiple medications is required), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis and chronic emphysema.
- chronic neurological conditions, including hereditary and degenerative central nervous system (CNS) diseases (including multiple sclerosis), neuromuscular disorders, spinal cord injuries and seizure disorders
- immunocompromising conditions, including immunocompromised due to disease or treatment (e.g. malignancy, transplantation and/or chronic steroid use), asplenia or splenic dysfunction and HIV infection
- diabetes and other metabolic disorders, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and chronic metabolic disorders
- chronic renal failure
- haemoglobinopathies
- children aged 6 months to 10 years on long term aspirin therapy
- pregnant women (influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy)
- people aged 65 years and over (a vaccine that is specifically designed to produce a higher immune response is available for this group).
All other individuals will have to obtain a Flu vaccine privately, which can be provided at the practice for $20.
When is the best time to have the Flu vaccine?
The timing of vaccination should aim to achieve the highest level of protection during the peak of the influenza season, usually from June to September in most parts of Australia. The highest level of protection occurs in the first 3 to 4 months after vaccination. Vaccination from mid-April onwards is likely to result in peak immunity during the influenza season. However, itβs never too late to vaccinate as influenza can spread all year round.
The following special needs group are recommended to have the Influenza vaccine at the earliest opportunity:
- Pregnant women
- People travelling to a destination where influenza is circulating (year-round in the tropics)
- Young children aged 6 months to less than 9 years who should have 2 doses of influenza vaccine (given at least 4 weeks apart) in the first year they receive the vaccine.
How can I book for my Flu vaccine?
Booking for the Flu vaccine with Quakers Hill Family Practice can be done via Hotdoc 24/7. You can also call the practice at 02 9626-6300 for an appointment.
Will I cost me anything to get the Flu vaccine?
If you do not belong to any of the high-risk groups listed above who are eligible for a government-funded flu vaccine, you will have to pay privately for your vaccine. The 2023 Flu vaccine will cost $20.
If you are not a Medicare card holder, you may also be charged the Doctor’s consultation fee.
What are the possible side effects of the Flu vaccine?
You may experience minor side effects following vaccination. Most reactions are mild and last no more than a couple of days and you will recover without any problems.
Common side effects of influenza vaccines include:
- drowsiness or tiredness
- muscle aches
- pain, redness and swelling at injection site
- occasionally an injection-site lump (may last many weeks – no treatment needed)
- mild fever
More information regarding the Influenza vaccine can be found via NSW Health’s website.