Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Influenza (sometimes called 'the flu') is a highly contagious virus that causes widespread illness every year.
  • Immunisation and practising prevention measures are the best ways we can protect against the flu and reduce the number of influenza infections and deaths.
  • Flu immunisation is recommended for everyone from 6 months of age who want to protect themselves from the flu and its complications.
  • Some people are more at risk of complications from the flu and are eligible for free vaccination.
  • People who work or live with people who are at risk of serious complications should also be immunised to avoid spreading the flu.
  • The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu because it does not contain any live virus.
  • You can receive your flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines including COVID-19 vaccine.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 02-04-2024