Flu Vaccines
What is Influenza?
Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. There are two main types of human influenza viruses: A and B. There are also many sub-types and strains. Flu is more serious than the common cold and severe cases can result in breathing difficulties and pneumonia. People in NSW can die from flu-related illness.
Flu can occur throughout the year but is most common in autumn and winter. In most flu seasons there are more than one strain circulating in the community.
People with flu often experience some or all the following symptoms:
fever and chills
cough, sore throat
runny or stuffy nose
muscle aches, joint pains, headaches and fatigue
nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea (more common in children than adults)
For more information on Influenza, please click here.
Government-funded flu vaccines
Free flu vaccinations are available under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for patients who meet the following eligibility criteria:
children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
First Nations people aged 6 months and over
people aged 65 years and over
people aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of severe influenza and its complications.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a free flu vaccine, please contact us at (02) 9789 5955.
Patients who do not meet the criteria for a free vaccine can receive a private flu vaccine for $20.00
