Influenza Information

• Influenza or 'the flu' is a highly contagious disease that can be spread through coughing, sneezing and close proximity
• Influenza is caused by a virus and is a serious illness especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with a chronic disease
• Annual vaccination is the most effective way to prevent getting the flu
• 10 per cent of all workplace absenteeism associated with illness is due to influenza.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have both the COVID-19 & Influenza Vaccines?
Advice from Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) is that there is no required timeframe to wait between the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines. This means if you have a COVID-19 vaccine planned for a similar time to your Influenza Vaccine they can be co-administered (given on the same day).

Is the flu a serious disease?
YES.  The flu is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease. It is not the same as the 
common cold and has the potential to take up to a number of weeks to recover.

Can receiving the flu shot give me the flu?
NO. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu as it is not a live vaccine.

If I am young and healthy, do I need to be vaccinated?
YES.  Being fit and healthy does not prevent you from catching the flu.

Why are flu vaccines free for Queenslanders in 2024?
The Queensland Government is providing free influenza vaccinations to Queensland residents to boost immunisation rates. Read media statement here.