- The free flu vaccination program is back for Queenslanders until September 30
- Children and teenagers aged two to 17 can now be vaccinated using a nasal spray (FluMist), a new needle-free alternative. This expands on the existing program providing free nasal spray flu vaccine access for children aged two to five years.
- An annual flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation and protects the wider community.
Gold Coast Health is encouraging residents to get their free flu shot ahead of winter.
Around 13 percent of Gold Coast residents have already received their annual influenza vaccine this year, on par with rates this time last year.
There have been more than 1,000 laboratory reported influenza cases this year on the Gold Coast as of May 10.
This year, Queensland is expanding its free flu vaccination program, including a new needle-free nasal spray vaccine for children aged 2 to 17 years, with eligibility expanding for those who struggle with or are uncomfortable receiving needle vaccination.
The safe and effective needle-free option is given as a gentle nasal spray into both nostrils and is widely used overseas.
With young children one of the most at-risk groups, FluMist is expected to significantly improve vaccine uptake among children, boosting protection for children, their families and the community.
To date, more than 1 million Queenslanders have been vaccinated against flu.
Keeping up to date with your vaccinations protects you, your family, and the wider community, as well as alleviating pressure on the hospital system.
Gold Coast Health Public Health Medical Director Dr Kate Alexander said flu strains change each year, and vaccination was the best protection.
“Although we haven’t seen flu numbers significantly increase yet this season, now is the time to protect yourself ahead of winter, when the disease is more likely to spread,” Dr Alexander said.
“The flu vaccination is free and easily accessible.
“Taking 15 minutes out of the day to get vaccinated could prevent you from spending days or weeks at home sick, or worse, in a hospital bed.”
