Flu Season in Australia: What to Expect and How to Stay Protected
- melissa2097
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Flu season in Australia typically occurs during the cooler months, and each year it can lead to serious illness, hospitalisations, and complications—especially for vulnerable groups. The good news is that the flu is preventable, and vaccination is your best protection.
At Alma Street Medical, we encourage all patients to understand the risks, recognise early symptoms, and take proactive steps to stay healthy this flu season.
What Is the Flu?
The flu (influenza) is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system (nose, throat, and lungs). It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.
Unlike a common cold, the flu can cause severe symptoms and may lead to complications such as pneumonia.
First Signs of the Flu
Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and may include:
Fever and chills
Body aches and muscle pain
Fatigue and weakness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or blocked nose
Headache
Some people may also experience nausea or vomiting (more common in children).
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can catch the flu, some groups are at higher risk of serious illness:
Adults aged 65 years and over
Young children
Pregnant women
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
People with chronic conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
Flu Vaccination: Why It Matters
Over 65s – Why Vaccination Is Essential
People aged 65 and over are at higher risk of complications, hospitalisation, and even death from the flu. They are recommended to receive a high-dose or enhanced flu vaccine, which is specifically designed to provide stronger protection for older immune systems.
Under 65s – Why You Still Need It
Even if you are healthy and under 65, vaccination is still important because:
You can still become seriously unwell
You can spread the flu to vulnerable family members
Vaccination reduces the severity and duration of illness
FluMist Nasal Spray – A Needle-Free Option
A newer option available in Australia is FluMist, a needle-free nasal spray vaccine designed for children.
Benefits include:
No needles – ideal for children who are anxious about injections
Quick and easy administration
Effective protection against influenza
Speak to your GP to see if FluMist is suitable for your child.
Queensland Free Flu Vaccination Program
The Queensland Government Free Flu Vaccination Program provides free flu vaccines to eligible groups, including:
Children
Older adults
Pregnant women
People with certain medical conditions
From time to time, Queensland may also offer free flu vaccines to all residents during specific public health campaigns, making it even easier to stay protected.
How Is the Flu Diagnosed?
A GP can usually diagnose the flu based on symptoms. In some cases, a swab test may be done to confirm the influenza virus.
Early diagnosis helps guide treatment and reduce the risk of complications.
Flu Treatment and Recovery
Most people recover within 1–2 weeks, but rest and care are important.
What to Do if You Have the Flu
Rest at home
Stay hydrated
Take paracetamol for fever and pain
Avoid spreading the virus by staying away from work or school
Medical Treatment
Antiviral medications may be prescribed in some cases
These work best when started early
Seek medical care if symptoms are severe or worsening.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Call 000 or seek urgent care if you experience:
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Confusion
Persistent high fever
Dehydration
Common Myths About the Flu Vaccine
Myth: The flu vaccine gives you the fluTruth: The vaccine cannot cause the flu. It helps your immune system protect you.
Myth: Healthy people don’t need the flu shotTruth: Anyone can get the flu and spread it to others.
Myth: One vaccine lasts foreverTruth: The flu virus changes each year, so annual vaccination is required.
How to Protect Yourself This Flu Season
Get vaccinated every year
Wash your hands regularly
Avoid close contact with sick people
Cover coughs and sneezes
Stay home if you are unwell
Final Thoughts
Flu season can be serious, but with the right prevention strategies—especially annual flu vaccination—you can protect yourself and your community.
At Alma Street Medical, we offer flu vaccinations for all age groups, including enhanced vaccines for over 65s and needle-free options for children.
📞 Book your flu shot today by calling (07) 4922 3300 or booking online.
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