300 deaths from influenza in Queensland last year, but three quarters of people hospitalised not vaccinated
Dr James Smith from Metro North Public Health Unit flags the risk of not getting vaccinated ahead of flu season.
Flu season is almost upon us, and with vaccination recommended from April to provide protection ahead of peak season, it’s worth noting that 73 per cent of those hospitalised for influenza in Queensland last year were not vaccinated.
The figures are staggering, considering both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are free for all Queenslanders from 6 months of age, including residents of aged care facilities.
Those aged over 65 years have the greatest risk of hospitalisation and death from influenza in Australia. Last year, 300 people died from influenza in Queensland, with most deaths in the older population.
The Queensland Government’s Free Flu Vaccination Program has already started its roll-out from 1 March ahead of the flu season curve, with now a great time for any Queensland resident to access their free vaccine from their preferred provider, including the GP, a pharmacy, or an aged care facility.
Metro North Public Health Unit Dr James Smith said it was particularly important for those aged over 65 years to access a special flu vaccine that is specific to their age.
“Standard flu vaccines do not generate strong immune protection in ageing immune systems, so enhanced vaccines have been developed,” he said.
“This year, all influenza vaccines are ‘trivalent’, meaning that protection is directed against three strains of influenza (two A strains and one B lineage) rather than the four in previous years. This is because one of the B lineages (called Yamagata) no longer circulates.
“The enhanced vaccines available for people aged over 65 years this year are called Fluad® (CSL Seqirus) and Fluzone High-Dose® (Sanofi), with Fluad available for free as part of the National Immunisation Program.
“Vaccination is critical in preventing both infection and severe disease in older people, especially our Residential Aged Care residents, while high levels of vaccination coverage in staff working in these facilities is important to minimise spread.”
Anyone aged 6 months and older who is a Queensland resident can access the Free Flu Vaccination Program. There is even a nasal spray option for children aged 2-5 years included in the funded/ free program, as an alternative to having an injection.
For more information or to find a provider, visit: 2026 Free Flu Vaccination Program | Queensland Health