Winter is coming: Flu vax reminder

With the colder months coming, it’s important to remind the community to get their annual influenza vaccine anytime from April onwards to be protected for the peak flu season (June to September). The highest level of protection happens in the first three to four months after vaccination.

The Queensland Government is funding free influenza vaccinations for all Queensland residents aged six months and older between 1 March and 30 September 2025. This program complements the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months and over. It is free under the National Immunisation Program for people most at risk, including:

• children six months to less than five years
• pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• people aged 65 years and over
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• people with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of influenza.

Providers should continue administering NIP-funded vaccines for eligible individuals and will be reimbursed for privately purchased vaccines for others.

It’s important to remember that you can also receive your COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as your influenza vaccine.

Most people now only need one first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine as their primary course. You may need 2 doses if you are at high risk of severe illness. For more information: COVID-19 vaccine advice and recommendations.