Seasonal Influenza Vaccination

The annual influenza vaccination remains the most effective way to protect patients—especially those most vulnerable—from serious illness and complications caused by the flu. The Influenza Vaccination Program provides up-to-date guidance and resources for immunisation providers to support the safe, timely, and efficient delivery of flu vaccines across NSW.

Annual influenza vaccination is essential for protecting those most at risk. As an immunisation provider, you should identify eligible patients early and use recall systems, website updates, social media, and in-practice promotion to encourage uptake.

Funded patient groups:

1. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Funded for all ages from 6 months.
Children under 9 years require 2 doses in their first year (both funded).
Offer co-administration with pneumococcal (Prevenar® 13) and Shingrix® (where eligible).

2. Children aged 6 months to <5 years

Funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
Require 2 doses in the first year of vaccination.
Vaxigrip Tetra® will be available in 2025.
Coverage in 2024 was only 24.1%—boosting this is a priority.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered (discuss minor risk of fever/convulsions with parents).

3. Pregnant women

Safe and recommended at any stage of pregnancy.
Protects both mother and baby during pregnancy and early infancy.
Can be given alongside pertussis (20–32 weeks) and RSV vaccine (28–36 weeks).
Must be recorded on the antenatal card and AIR.
Women vaccinated before pregnancy should be revaccinated during pregnancy.

4. Medically at-risk individuals (aged 5 and over)

Funded for people with conditions like severe asthma, heart/lung disease, diabetes, or low immunity.
Children under 9 years require 2 doses in their first year.

5. People aged 65 years and over

Funded vaccine: Fluad® Quad (adjuvanted QIV).
Specifically designed to enhance immune response in older adults.
Not recommended to revaccinate with Fluad® Quad if another QIV already given that year.
Can be co-administered with Prevenar® 13 and Shingrix®.

6. Healthcare workers and students

Required to receive annual flu vaccine by 1 June under NSW Health policy.
May access vaccine at work or privately (unless eligible for funded vaccine).

7. Other patients (aged 5 to 64 years, not funded)

Private market vaccines are available through GPs and pharmacies.

Timing and promotion tips:

Best time to vaccinate: before flu season (typically June–September), but offer year-round if influenza is circulating and valid vaccines are available.
Early vaccination is recommended for:
- Pregnant women
- Young children (who may need 2 doses)
- Travellers to flu-affected regions

Providers are encouraged to use: