Influenza (Flu)
Information about the Influenza (Flu) Immunisation Program funded under the Immunise Australia Program.
Influenza (flu) is caused by two types of viruses in humans (Influenza A and B). Influenza is spread between people through infected droplets in the air.
Symptoms take between 1 and 3 days after infection to show and include:
- tiredness;
- fever;
- chills;
- headache;
- cough;
- sneezing and runny nose;
- poor appetite; and
- muscle aches.
Further health problems can develop in some people after infection with influenza including pneumonia, heart, blood system and liver complications, which can lead to death, especially in children and older people.
Influenza is a vaccine preventable disease, but vaccines need to be given each year, because the viruses are always changing. Influenza vaccination is recommended as part of routine immunisation for Older Australians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders people.
It is listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule and funded for Indigenous people aged over 50, and aged 15 to 49 who are at high risk (according to NHMRC recommendations), and people 65 years and older under the Immunise Australia Program. A course of 1 dose of vaccine each year is used for these groups. Immunisation against influenza is achieved using a single-disease vaccine.
The National Institute of Clinical Studies (NICS) resource Influenza: Are you at risk? provides guidance for consumers about Influenza and getting vaccinated and, information, tools and tips are presented for immunisation providers, to assist with identifying and protecting patients who are at risk of influenza complications.
For information on H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Influenza), please see the Department of Health and & Ageing Health Emergency website.
Influenza Immunisation for Older Australians
This program provides free influenza vaccine for all Australians aged 65 and older. People in this age group are at high risk from influenza and its complications, with the majority of deaths from influenza occurring in this age group.The Australian Government aims to provide greater protection against influenza for older people, by making influenza vaccine available, free of charge. To receive influenza immunisation, visit your local doctor or immunisation provider. It is important to note that the vaccine is provided at no cost, however a consultation fee may apply.
For information about immunisation in your area contact your State or Territory Health Department. For technical information or information about vaccines, refer to the influenza section of the Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2008 (NHMRC)
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Influenza Immunisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
This program provides free vaccines, through community controlled Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS), State/Territory immunisation clinics and general practitioners, for Indigenous people who are:- aged over 50; and
- aged 15 to 49 who are at high risk, according to National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommendations.
Respiratory diseases are major causes of preventable sickness and death in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, with some Aboriginal communities having the highest incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease in the world.
To receive influenza immunisation, visit your local doctor or immunisation provider. It is important to note that the vaccine is provided at no cost, however a consultation fee may apply.
For information about immunisation in your area contact your State or Territory Health Department. For technical information or information about vaccines, refer to the Influenza section of the Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2008 (NHMRC).
Page last modified: 03 June, 2009