QUEENSLANDERS can now book in for free flu vaccinations in 2024, as part of a $40 million commitment from the State Government to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments this flu season.
The initiative also puts money back in the pockets of Queenslanders and their families.
All Queensland residents over the age of 6 months are eligible to receive the free vaccine from vaccination providers, including GPs and pharmacies. Bookings are now open.
The peak season for influenza varies from year to year, but typically starts in May and lasts until around October, with most cases typically recorded in August.
Queenslanders are encouraged to consider vaccination ahead of the peak season to ensure coverage over the winter months.
This program is an extension of those that ran during the 2022 and 2023 seasons and saw 912,000 Queenslanders take up the offer.
Influenza vaccine uptake dropped significantly in 2023 compared to the year prior, with just a third of Queenslanders being vaccinated against the flu. Flu vaccination uptake was particularly low last year among children aged five years and under.
The 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program, concluding on 30 September 2024, aims to encourage more Queenslanders to get vaccinated, while putting money back into the pockets of families who do not qualify for a free vaccination under the Commonwealth’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).
The influenza vaccine can be co-administered with a COVID-19 booster dose.
Premier Steven Miles said that while it may seem like the common cold, influenza can be deadly, which is why it’s so important to get a flu shot every year.
“Many people have vaccine fatigue after the pandemic, which means we are recording significant drops in vaccinations against things like the flu,” he said.
“Our free flu vaccination program is an easy way to get yourself covered ahead of winter without the barrier of cost, and has helped almost one million people get protected so far.
“It’s our hope that all eligible Queenslanders, especially the vulnerable, roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated. It’s the best way to protect yourself and those around you this flu season.”
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said that every year Queensland sees hundreds of hospitalisations due to influenza.
“Already this year, more than 700 people have been hospitalised due to serious illness from influenza and as of 25 March 2024, 83 Queenslanders are currently in hospital due to influenza,” she said.
In 2023, Queensland recorded more than 74,000 flu cases, and sadly, 144 deaths were reported
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman
“Since the start of this year, 7,000 flu cases have been reported, as well as 11 deaths due to influenza.
“Getting vaccinated every year is the best way for people to protect themselves and their loved ones against the flu.”
The Queensland Free Flu Vaccination Program has now been running for three consecutive years, helping to ease the financial barrier for all Queenslanders wanting to get vaccinated.
Minister Fentiman said nearly all people presenting to hospitals with the flu last year had not been vaccinated, which can put significant pressure on emergency departments.
“Making it free ahead of the peak flu season keeps people safe and ensures our health system is available for Queenslanders who need it most,” she said.
“The launch of this year’s free flu campaign follows the free Meningococcal B vaccine for eligible children and adolescents, as well as last week’s announcement of a free RSV immunisation program for more than 70,000 eligible infants and young children.
“We hope the combination of these free immunisation campaigns will lead to reduced hospital presentations and admissions this cold and flu season.”
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