Free flu vaccinations extended

Free flu vaccination for all South Australians has been extended until 31 August 2022.

All South Australians are now able to access the flu vaccine for free until 31 August 2022 at GPs, pharmacies and council clinics.

The 2022 flu season is expected to be more severe following two years of the COVID-19 pandemic response, with reduced natural immunity and low influenza vaccination rates.

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly infectious viral illness caused by influenza A or B viruses.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against the flu. Vaccination makes it less likely you will suffer from serious illness or need to be hospitalised.

Free flu vaccinations are being funded via a subsidy scheme for South Australian GPs and pharmacists to provide free access to flu vaccinations to those individuals not already eligible under the National Immunisation Program.

The National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides free flu vaccinations for those most vulnerable to flu in our community and these groups are:

• infants and children aged six months to less than five years of age
• everyone aged 65 years and over
• pregnant people
• people with health conditions and medical risk factors.
• all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over

However, due to the unique circumstances in 2022, South Australia will make flu vaccinations free for all South Australians until 31 August 2022.

Contact your GP, local pharmacy or council clinic to book your free flu vaccination.