Community & Business
10 April, 2024
Free flu shots
Ahead of the 2024 flu season, Queenslanders can now book in for a free flu vaccination.
All Queensland residents over the age of six months are eligible to receive the free vaccine from vaccination providers, including GPs and pharmacies with bookings now open.
The peak season for influenza varies from year to year, but typically starts in May and lasts until around October, with most cases typically recorded in August.
Queenslanders are encouraged to consider vaccination ahead of the peak season to ensure coverage over the winter months.
From 1 January to 24 March, there have been more than 7,000 flu cases reported, with 713 admitted to hospital.
In the Darling Downs from 1 January to 31 March, there have been 202 flu cases reported over the same period last year and just two in 2022.
This program is an extension of those that ran during the 2022 and 2023 seasons and saw 912,000 Queenslanders take up the offer.
Influenza vaccine uptake dropped significantly in 2023 compared to the year prior, with just a third of Queenslanders being vaccinated against the flu.
Flu vaccination uptake was particularly low last year among children aged five years and under.
The program concludes on 30 September 2024.
The influenza vaccine can be co-administered with a Covid-19 booster dose.
Up until 31 March, there have been 768 Covid-19 cases reported in the Darling Downs this year.
Premier Steven Miles said many people have vaccine fatigue after the pandemic, which means we are recording significant drops in vaccinations against things like the flu.
“While it might seem like the common cold, influenza can be deadly which is why it’s so important to get a flu shot every single year,” Premier Miles said.
“Our free flu vaccination program is an easy way to get yourself covered ahead of winter without the barrier of cost, and has helped almost one million people get protected so far.
“It’s our hope that all eligible Queenslanders, especially the vulnerable, roll up their sleeve and get vaccinated.”
