Australians urged to prepare for resurgence of flu

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and Consumer Health Forum (CHF) are urging Australians to prepare for a potential resurgence of influenza (flu) and get vaccinated early.

The pandemic has led to decreased exposure to the influenza virus and lower influenza vaccine coverage compared to previous years. But with an end to lockdowns and state and international borders reopening, a resurgence of influenza is expected in 2022, prompting warnings of a potentially monster flu season ahead.

Annual vaccination should ideally occur before the onset of each influenza season, which usually occurs from June to September in most parts of Australia. The influenza vaccination program will commence in April, providing protection before the peak of the expected season.

The annual Influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months or older. It’s free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for children aged 6-months to 5-years and adults 65 years and over, as well as pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people with certain medical conditions.

RACGP President Professor Karen Price urged Australians to prepare for the influenza season.

“Getting your flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available in April gives you protection before the expected peak of the influenza season.
“Remember, the vaccine rolls out across the country from April. Most practices will only open bookings when they receive stock, and your practice may notify you when this happens.

“Don’t delay – book your flu vaccine today.”

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