Children over 5
Recent changes in May by the South Australian Government now allow pharmacies to administer flu vaccinations to children from 5 years of age rather than 10 years. At this stage only a limited number of pharmacists are trained to provide this service. It’s best to contact your local Health Partners participating Pharmacy to see if they provide this service. Some pharmacies periodically hold Family Clinics with a visiting nurse practitioner who can administer the vaccines. Call your pharmacy to enquire. We also recommend consulting with your GP.
Please note that children aged between six months and five years are eligible for free flu vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program. Please speak with your GP or pharmacist, or see the SA Health website for more information.
National Immunisation Program
In accordance with the 2022 National Immunisation Program, pharmacies in South Australia are now able to provide government-funded flu vaccinations to people who are aged 65 and over, along with pregnant women and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander persons aged 10 or older. Speak to your GP or pharmacist to find out if you are eligible, or visit the SA Health website for more information.
- All adults aged ≥65 years: Pharmacies may charge for this service. This is not claimable from Health Partners as it is a government program. Please speak to your doctor or pharmacist about what’s best for your situation
Flu Shots, COVID-19 and boosters
Although we have seen fewer cases of the flu over the past 2 years, influenza is still a highly contagious infection of the airways, and is especially serious for some people. As we open up our borders to more people and head out of the house more in 2022 than we have in the last couple of years, it may be more important than ever to be protected against the flu. While the flu shot won’t prevent you from contracting COVID-19, it will help reduce the severity and spread of the flu.
Pharmacies will be running concurrently, booster and flu vaccine clinics this season. Speak with your GP or pharmacist about the best time to receive your flu shot and COVID-19 Booster, or if you have any concerns about any of the vaccines.
Bookings
Demand for the flu vaccine is expected to be higher than previous years due to the easing of Covid restrictions, as well as the various Covid Booster clinics running concurrently in pharmacy this season. Please ring your pharmacist or book early to avoid disappointment.