Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications and is recommended for all people aged 6 months and over.

Free vaccines will be available to eligible Queenslanders from mid-April.

Best timing for vaccination:

The timing of vaccination should aim to achieve the highest level of protection during the peak of the influenza season. Flu season in Queensland is typically from June to September, with the peak usually in August.

Vaccinating from Late March / Early April provides protection before the peak season takes place. While protection is generally expected to last for the whole season, the best protection against influenza occurs within the first 3 to 4 months following vaccination.

It is never too late to vaccinate since influenza can circulate in the community all year round. Vaccination should continue to be offered as long as influenza viruses are circulating and a valid vaccine (before expiration date) is available.

It is also important to remind people that the vaccine is not immediately effective and it generally takes 10 to 14 days to be fully protected.