You and the Flu: Separating Fact from Fiction

Myth: "The flu shot can give you the flu"

Fact: This is a common myth, but we can reassure you: you can’t catch the flu from the flu shot. Vaccines used in Australia do not contain any live flu virus, but instead they use an inactive part of the virus to prepare your immune system.

It’s true however that some people (about one in six) might feel a touch under the weather for a day or two after their vaccination. You might experience a mild fever, muscle aches or a sore arm, but these aren't the flu, they’re actually signs that your body is working hard to build its defences.

Myth: "I don’t need a flu shot if I’m healthy"

Fact: While being fit and healthy is a great start, the flu isn’t picky. Even the healthiest people can become extremely unwell as a result of the flu.

Getting vaccinated isn't just about our own health; it’s about looking out for our community as well. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping to protect those who might be more vulnerable, such as young children, older family members, and friends and family with underlying health conditions.

"Is your child nervous about needles? Talk to your pharmacist, GP or other health professional about flu vaccine options that may suit them better, including needle-free flu vaccines.”, says Xin Ng, Pharmacist Manager at Health Partners Participating Pharmacy, Blooms the Chemist.

Myth: "I got the flu shot last year, so I’m covered"

Fact: Unfortunately, the flu is a bit of a moving target. The virus strains change every year, which means the vaccine needs to be updated annually to match.

The protection you get from the vaccine naturally begins to fade after about three to four months. Getting your annual shot ensures you have the highest level of immunity against influenza.

Myth: "It’s too late to get a flu shot"

Fact: You should aim to get your flu shot anytime from April onwards, but while it’s ideal to get vaccinated before the peak season hits (usually June to September), it is never too late. If you haven't had your shot yet, getting it now still provides vital protection for the remainder of the season and beyond. The highest level of protection from the flu shot is in the first 3 to 4 months after the vaccination.

Myth: "The flu is just a bad cold"

Fact: While they may share some symptoms like a cough or sore throat, the flu and the common cold are caused by entirely different viruses. The flu is much more serious and can lead to severe complications like pneumonia or heart problems, and symptoms of the flu usually come on suddenly and are much more debilitating.

We've got your back this flu season

We’re proud to offer free flu shots to eligible Health Partners members aged between 5 and 64^{^}. You can access your free vaccination at over 50 participating pharmacies across South Australia between 1 March and 31 August 2026.

How to get yours:

1. Find a pharmacy: Visit our Flu Clinics page to find a participating provider near you.
2. Book in: Contact your chosen pharmacy directly to schedule your appointment. Book online or give them a call.
3. Show your Health Partners card: Bring your physical membership card or show your digital card when you present to your appointment.

Is your child under 5? Are you over 65? You can still access a free flu shot through the government's National Immunisation Program at your local pharmacy or GP clinic.

If you have any questions about your cover or where to find a provider, we’re here to help. Give our local team a call on 1300 113 113 or visit us online.

Sources:

• Australian Government Department of Health: Influenza Vaccination
• Healthdirect Australia: Flu Vaccine FAQs
• The Australian Immunisation Handbook: Influenza

^{^}Offer applies to Extras and/or Hospital members. Member must be financial and waiting periods do not apply. Offer available during promotional period only (1 March – 31 August 2026) when stock becomes available. 1 influenza vaccine per eligible member when administered at a Health Partners participating pharmacy for members aged 5 years and up to 65 years. Covers approved, seasonal egg-based influenza vaccine for eligible Health Partners members only. Cell based, high dose or boosted (adjuvanted), or internasal vaccines are not eligible for this offer. Only available at a Health Partners Participating Pharmacy that has elected to participate in this promotion. Pharmacies reserve the right to only vaccinate certain age ranges for clinical reasons. Clinic session days and times vary from store to store. Offer does not count towards annual pharmacy benefit limits. Health Partners is in no way involved in the management of pharmacy administered vaccinations. We will not pay benefits for members who are eligible for Federal Government funded vaccines under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) or South Australian (SA) government funded vaccine programs, irrespective of vaccine supply. If you are under 5 or over 65 years you are not covered by the Health Partners free flu shot program. Health Partners does not cover any NIP or SA funded program costs including administration, consultation or service fees that may be incurred if such a vaccine is administered in a pharmacy or doctor’s clinic. No benefits apply for boosters. Vaccination bookings available on a first come first served basis in the cases of high demand.