Blog
15 July 2025
Protecting Yourself and Your Community from the Flu
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is far more than just a seasonal inconvenience. It’s a serious viral infection that can lead to hospitalisation and, in some cases, life-threatening complications. While the flu affects people of all ages, it poses particular risks for older adults, making annual vaccination not just recommended, but essential to help maintain good health and independence.
Why the Flu is Especially Serious for Older Adults
As we age, our immune systems naturally become less robust, making it harder to fight off infections like influenza. For people aged 65 and over, the flu can quickly escalate from mild symptoms to severe complications including pneumonia, heart problems, and worsening of existing chronic conditions.
The statistics are sobering: older adults account for the majority of flu-related hospitalisations and deaths each year. However, there’s good news – annual flu vaccination significantly reduces these risks, helping you to maintain your health and continue living independently at home.
Understanding the Annual Flu Vaccine
You might wonder why you need a new flu shot every year. The influenza virus is constantly changing, with different strains circulating each season. Scientists update the annual vaccine to target the strains most likely to spread during the upcoming flu season, which is why yearly vaccination is necessary for optimal protection.
The vaccine has a strong safety record spanning many decades. Common side effects are typically mild – perhaps some soreness at the injection site or mild fatigue – and resolve within a few days. Serious reactions are extremely rare.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. However, it’s particularly important for certain groups who face higher risks from flu complications.
Under Australia’s National Immunisation Program, the flu vaccination is provided free of charge to:
- People aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- People with certain medical conditions including heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions, diabetes, and compromised immune systems
If you’re 65 or older, you’ll receive a specially formulated vaccine designed to boost your immune response for better protection.
Common Questions About Flu Vaccination
“I’m healthy for my age – do I really need it?” Yes. Even healthy older adults can benefit significantly from flu vaccination. The vaccine not only protects you but also helps protect vulnerable family members and community members who may not be able to be vaccinated.
“Can the vaccine give me the flu?” No. The flu vaccine cannot cause influenza. It contains either inactivated virus or a single weakened virus strain that stimulates immunity without causing illness.
“I had the flu vaccine and still got sick – does it work?” While the vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it significantly reduces your risk of getting the flu. Even if you do become ill, vaccination often results in milder symptoms and shorter illness duration.
Getting Your Vaccination
Flu vaccinations are widely available through your GP, participating pharmacies, community health centres, and Aboriginal health services. The timing of vaccination matters – ideally, you should receive your annual flu shot before the peak flu season begins, but it’s never too late to get protected.
Annual flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to maintain your health and independence. Speak with your healthcare provider about getting your flu shot – it’s a simple step that can make a significant difference to your wellbeing throughout the year.