Throughout June, flu shots are free for everyone, as concern grows about the rising number of flu cases in the state.
As concerns grow about the number of flu cases in the state, flu shots will be free throughout June, in an attempt to get people to roll up their sleeves.
The state government is providing free influenza vaccinations for Victorians, after cases of flu increased by more than 30 per cent in the past week alone from 10,000 to 15,000.
Two years of COVID-19 and reduced international travel has led to limited immunity to the common winter virus.
To help make getting the vaccination as easy as possible, more than 3000 GP clinics and community pharmacies across Victoria will offer the free flu vaccinations.
The flu vaccination is already free for eligible groups including children under five years, people over 65 years, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with increased risk medical conditions.
However now all Victorians aged six months and over will be eligible for the free flu shot between June 1 and 30 to help boost vaccination coverage as much as possible and avoid more hospitalisations throughout winter.
Flu vaccines have already been made available to children aged five years and over from their community pharmacy, taking pressure off GPs and keeping children safe and out of hospital this winter.
As part of the push, the government is also offering $2000 grants to immunisation providers to help them manage the additional demand – such as rostering on more staff and opening for longer hours.
The cold weather also serves as a timely reminder to make sure your child is up to date with all their vaccinations, including their COVID-19 jabs.
There is no interval required between receiving a COVID-19 and flu vaccine.
Victorians are encouraged to contact their local GP or community pharmacy to book their free vaccine. Search for participating pharmacies at www.findapharmacy.com.au/home/flu-vaccine
Anyone with cold and flu symptoms should get tested for COVID-19 and remain at home until their symptoms have resolved – regardless of whether it turns out to be COVID-19 or flu. People who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate for seven days from the date of their result.
To book at a local pharmacy, go to www.findapharmacy.com.au/home/flu-vaccine.
