South Australians are being urged to plan now for their influenza vaccination ahead of the winter season.

The first supplies of the free flu vaccine, specifically for people aged 65 and over, have been delivered by SA Health to GP clinics, pharmacies and other immunisation providers.

In South Australia last year, more than 67 per cent of people aged 65 and over got their vaccine.

Free vaccines for others, including children and people at higher risk of severe influenza disease and developing flu-related complications, are now being delivered.

For people who are at greater risk of severe disease, the flu vaccine is available free through the National Immunisation Program.

That applies to around 600,000 South Australians, including people aged 65 years and over, pregnant women, children aged six months to less than five years of age, all Aboriginal people from six months of age, and people with certain medical conditions.

SA Health wants to ensure that people in the most vulnerable groups are vaccinated early in readiness for the flu season, as influenza disease can be severe, causing death or serious illness requiring hospitalisation.

It expects to see the number of flu cases track up soon, with 2025 cases of influenza notified in South Australia this year already, compared with 1469 at the same time last year.

The vaccine is adjusted each season to protect against new strains. SA Health says delivery of vaccines is timed to ensure South Australians can be vaccinated and protected ahead of the peak months of flu season, usually between June and September.

South Australia also provides free flu vaccines to adults and children who are experiencing homelessness and are not otherwise eligible for the free flu vaccine under the NIP.

Since 2022 pharmacies have been able to administer the free flu vaccine for South Australians aged 65 and over and other vulnerable groups (except children under 5) under the National Immunisation Program.

The state government says last year, South Australia’s flu vaccine uptake was above the national average and the highest of any mainland state.

Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier says prevention is always better than cure and this certainly is the case for influenza. 

“I strongly encourage everyone to plan now to get their flu vaccine from their GP, pharmacist or immunisation provider. 

“If you are over 65 you should ring your usual immunisation provider to confirm that you can make a booking now. Parents, please start planning to have your little ones vaccinated – their vaccine will be here soon.

“I’d also like to remind immunisation providers to let their higher-risk patients know they are eligible for a free flu vaccination. This could include people with chronic heart problems or respiratory conditions, chronic neurological disorders that can affect respiratory function, chronic kidney failure and people with impaired immunity.

“And if your employer offers a program, make sure you are the first to sign up!” 

Flu symptoms include a rapid onset of fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea in children.

While many people recover within a week, cough and fatigue may last longer. In those most at risk influenza can cause serious illness, complications and hospitalisation, and sadly even death.

To find out more visit the SA Health website.