20 February, 2025

Flu in kids can be serious

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With cases of influenza (flu) rising in the Australian community, we want to remind you it is not too late for your children to get their annual flu vaccination. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months or over.

Babies and young children are among the most vulnerable to risks of complications and hospitalisation from the flu. The best way to protect them is with a flu vaccine that is safe, effective, and free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for children aged 6 months to under 5 years.

If you are pregnant, you can protect your baby by getting a flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy. A flu vaccination during pregnancy not only protects you, it also protects your newborn in their first 6 months.

The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and is free through the NIP for:

  • Children 6 months to less than 5 years of age
  • Pregnant women at any stage during pregnancy
  • People aged 65 or over
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months or over
  • People aged 6 months or over with certain medical conditions.

Some states and territories may offer free vaccines for other groups. Talk to your doctor or visit your state or territory health department website to find out more.

You can find a range of in-language resources about the flu vaccine at: Flu Vaccine Translated Resources

More information about the flu is available at: Flu Information

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