The flu is very serious
The flu (influenza) is not the same as a common cold. It hits you quickly and can cause symptoms like fever, shakes, body pain, a runny nose, coughing, trouble breathing, and upset stomach. This can leave you stuck in bed for a week or longer.
The flu typically spreads when people with it cough or sneeze, and it's most commonly seen in the winter.
Even if you're generally healthy and fit, the flu can make you or your kids very sick.
Because the flu virus changes frequently, the flu shot has to be adjusted every year to fight off the latest versions of the virus. This is why getting a flu shot yearly gives you the best defence against getting sick.
The flu vaccine is free for:
- People aged 65+
- Immunocompromised people
- Those with long term conditions (like asthma and diabetes)
- Pregnant people
- Children aged under 4 years and hospitalised with respiratory illness or history of significant respiratory illness
- Specific mental health conditions or addiction issues
When should I get the flu shot?
The best time to be vaccinated is just before the start of the winter season - this is between April and June. It takes two weeks after vaccination for the vaccine to be fully effective.
The flu vaccine is an annual vaccination programme. The vaccine is adjusted each year to match the latest strains of the flu virus. Getting a flu shot yearly gives you the best defence against getting sick.
How do I book the flu vaccine?
In the app: Select book an appointment > select the person > select book a service > select 'Flu vaccine' > select your preferred clinic.
In clinic: If you're coming in, ask us about adding it to the end of your visit.
Phone: Call your clinic to talk to someone from our reception team.
You do not need to be enrolled with Tend to get the flu vaccine. We welcome casual patients.
Are there different types of flu vaccines?
Yes there are several influenza vaccines available in 2024 - standard and advanced protection. During your appointment you can discuss these options with your care team.
What is the Fluad Quad vaccine?
People aged 65 years or older are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from influenza and are eligible for Fluad Quad, a tailored version of the flu vaccine.
This version of the flu vaccine is designed to help create a stronger immune response to the vaccine. It is beneficial for older people who often have a lower protective immune response after flu vaccination compared to younger people.
The Fluad Quad flu vaccine is only available for people over 65 and it costs $50. Once again, just book it in the app under services.
