Influenza (the flu)
2026 free flu vaccinations
The flu vaccine is free for all Queenslanders aged 6 months and older.
Flu season is nearly here – book you and your family in early. Children aged 2 to 5 (before they turn 6) can now be vaccinated using a nasal spray instead of having an injection. Find out where you can get vaccinated.
Overview
Influenza, or “the flu,” is a highly contagious respiratory virus that affects the nose, throat and lungs. It spreads easily from person to person and can cause mild to severe illness.
Some people may become very unwell, require hospital care, and in severe cases influenza can lead to death.
The flu virus often changes over time, which is why vaccination is recommended each year. In Queensland, flu activity usually increases during the winter months.
Groups at higher risk
Some people are more likely to become very unwell from the flu, including:
- young children
- older adults
- pregnant people
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- people with medical conditions such as heart, lung or immune system problems
These groups should seek medical advice early if they develop flu symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
Flu symptoms usually start suddenly and may include:
- fever or chills
- cough and sore throat
- runny or blocked nose
- headache and muscle aches
- tiredness or weakness
Most people recover from flu within a week.
Treatment
Most people recover from the flu at home with rest, fluids and medicine to relieve symptoms.
Some people at higher risk of severe illness may be eligible for antiviral medication. Speak with your health professional if you are concerned.
Flu can sometimes lead to complications such as pneumonia or worsening of existing medical conditions, both of which may require hospital care.
Transmission
Flu spreads through droplets and tiny particles when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or breathes.
You can also catch the flu by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
People are usually most infectious in the first few days of illness. If you have flu symptoms, stay home until you are feeling better and do not have a fever.
Prevention
Vaccination – get vaccinated
Vaccination is the best protection against severe illness from flu.
Flu vaccines are updated each year to protect against the most common strains.
For the most current advice on vaccination, eligibility and what is funded, use the following links, or speak with your health professional:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- The flu (influenza) | Vaccination Matters Queensland Health
- Free Flu Vaccination Program | Queensland Health
Other prevention steps
You can also reduce the spread of flu by:
- staying home when you are sick
- wearing a mask if you need to be around others while unwell
- washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub
- covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow and disposing of used tissues immediately
- avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- cleaning frequently touched surfaces such as door handles
- improving ventilation by opening windows and spending time outdoors
Other resources
- Australian CDC seasonal influenza
- Healthdirect Flu (influenza) – influenza A and B, symptoms, vaccine | healthdirect
Help and assistance
If you are concerned about the flu or any symptoms that you may have:
- Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or speak to your health professional for advice