Influenza (flu)

Dad and baby

You can find translated information about Influenza (flu) in resources.

Influenza, commonly known as ‘flu’, is a highly contagious viral infection. Influenza infections can occur at any time throughout the year, but the number of cases usually increases during the winter months, often referred to as the ‘flu season’. Influenza virus is spread person-to-person from coughs and sneezes and can cause life-threatening complications.

Annual influenza vaccination is your best protection against the flu!

Each year the influenza vaccine changes to match the strains of flu expected to be circulating that year.  To better protect you and your family from the flu, it is important to be vaccinated every year.
Influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 month and older. Talk to your doctor, selected pharmacies (for people aged 5 years and older) and other immunisation providers about getting vaccinated.

In the ACT the flu vaccination is government funded through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for some groups. Please note an administration or consultation fee may be charged by the vaccine provider.

People eligible for the NIP vaccinations are:
•    All children aged 6 months to under 5 years
•    People aged 6 months and older with a medical condition that increases risk of influenza complications
•    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older
•    Anyone pregnant (at any stage of pregnancy)
•    People aged 65 years and older

If you are eligible, check with your GP or pharmacist if they provide NIP influenza vaccines and if there is an administration or consultation fee.  
For more information about the flu and how to stay healthy this winter visit our Winter wellbeing and the flu pages.

Page last updated on: 27 Mar 2023