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Over the past three years influenza vaccination rates amongst young children have fallen with only 28% of this cohort receiving the flu vaccine in 2023. New data from the Department of Health and Aged Care has revealed an 18% increase in influenza cases in those aged between six months and five years, between 2022 and 2023.

Children were disproportionately impacted by the flu last year, with those aged 5–9 years having the highest influenza notification rates, followed by children aged 0–4.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling on parents to get their children vaccinated early, as more children continue to miss out on this vital protection.

Vaccination still remains the most important measure to protect against the influenza virus and its complications.

Under the National Immunisation Program, children aged between 6 months and 5 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from six months, pregnant women, people aged 65 or over, and people with specific medical conditions are eligible for a free influenza vaccine.

Free flu vaccines for patients aged 5-64 are available at Our Medical centres. No appointment is required. To receive the free flu vaccine, check-in to see a bulk billing GP at the centre using the Our Medical app.

For patients who don’t have a Medicare card, the vaccine is still free, however, patients will need to pay the standard private fee for the GP consultation.

Click here to find your nearest Our Medical centre.

Government funded flu vaccines, for patients aged 6 months - 4 years and those aged 65 and over, have arrived at Annerley, Ashmore, Caroline Springs, Dee Why, Gold Coast, Gregory Hills, Kellyville, Marsden Park & Penrith centres. 

*Please note: Government funded influenza vaccines will be arriving at all other centres soon.  

Source: RACGP