Winter vaccinations are your best preparation

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself against common winter respiratory viruses, including influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Older adults are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill or needing hospital treatment from these respiratory illnesses, but staying up to date with recommended vaccinations reduces your risk.

Peak winter virus season is usually June to September. It’s best to get vaccinated each year when the vaccines become available to be protected before peak season – but it’s never too late to get vaccinated.

Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd AO, has called on older Australians who have not yet had their winter vaccinations to make the appointment and get protected.

“Vaccinations save lives and are important for older Australians in order to help keep people well and to prevent serious illness related to common respiratory illnesses,” said Professor Kidd.

To help protect people at higher risk, the National Immunisation Program (NIP) offers free vaccinations to eligible people:

• Flu vaccine is free for people aged 65 and over, and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.
• RSV vaccine is now free for people aged 75 and over, and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over.

The COVID-19 vaccine is free for adults in Australia, regardless of Medicare or visa status.

Flu and COVID-19 viruses continue to change over time, so vaccines are regularly updated to protect against the latest variants.

Annual vaccination is recommended, including a COVID-19 vaccine dose every 6 months for people aged 75 and over.

Currently, a single dose of RSV vaccine is recommended, and protection is expected to last for at least 2 years.

Speak with your health professional and book your vaccinations today. For more information visit health.gov.au/winter-vaccinations.