Influenza season in Australia usually peaks the winter months (June, July and August) each year. Optimal protection from influenza vaccination occurs in the first 3–4 months following vaccination. Therefore, it is recommended to vaccinate when the national influenza immunisation program starts, which is generally in April. However as influenza continues to circulate, it is never too late to vaccinate.
When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?
If you are travelling to the northern hemisphere throughout their peak flu season which is in the winter months (over Christmas/New Year), you should speak to your health professional about additional vaccination options.
Remember that it is always important to speak with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about influenza vaccination for you and your family.
Sources & Citations
3. Department of Health. Australian Immunisation Handbook - Influenza. Available at: https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/vaccine-preventable-diseases/influenza-flu (accessed 28 May 2024).
8. Centers for Disease Control. Key facts about seasonal flu vaccine. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm (accessed 28 May 2024).
10. Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). Statement on administration of seasonal influenza vaccines in 2024. Available at: https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-02/atagi-statement-on-the-administration-of-seasonal-influenza-vaccines-in-2024.pdf (accessed 28 May 2024).
11. NSW Government. Health. Influenza factsheet. Available at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/influenza_factsheet.aspx (accessed 28 May 2024).
MAT-AU-2102449-2.0 Date of preparation May 2024.
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