People aged 65 and over have a higher risk of complications from influenza, pneumococcal disease and shingles (Herpes Zoster) infections. The following vaccines are recommended at specific ages and funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for everyone in this age group (a consultation fee may apply).
Influenza (commonly known as ‘flu’) is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, For more information visit the Influenza webpage. All people 65 years and over can have a free yearly influenza vaccine. 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. Please speak with your family doctor or other immunisation provider for more information (a consultation fee may apply).
Invasive Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumococcal disease can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infection and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain). All people aged 70 years and over can have a free pneumococcal vaccine. Please speak with your family doctor or other immunisation provider for more information (a consultation fee may apply).
Shingles (also called herpes zoster) is the disease caused when the chickenpox virus reactivates. It is a painful skin rash that often includes blisters. The rash usually appears on one side of your face or body and lasts for 2 to 4 weeks. Persistent pain from shingles lesions (known as Post Herpetic Neuralgia) can be very severe and can last for a year or more. People 65 years of age and over are eligible for 2-doses of funded shingles vaccine. Please speak with your family doctor or other immunisation provider for more information (a consultation fee may apply).
