As the nights and the mornings start to get a little cooler, it’s time to put your flu vaccine at the top of your to-do list.

Current statistics from the Australian Government Department of Health have indicated that cases of laboratory confirmed influenza were up 29.25% for the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period for 2023. The onset of the flu season in Australia has also been earlier than usual since 2022 and as of 18 March 2024, national influenza statistics suggest we could be facing our second consecutive early influenza season in 2024.

The WA and Queensland Governments have recently announced that flu vaccinations will be free again this year during selected months, which means it’s as easy as taking the family to your local Pharmacy 777 and getting the vaccination administered. Western Australians will be able to receive a free flu vaccination in May and June, and Queenslanders have until the end of September to get their free flu vaccination.

Pharmacy 777 Managing Director Kim Brotherson said the best way to protect your family is to get the flu vaccine early. “I cannot emphasise enough the importance of having your flu vaccination early in the season to make sure that you and your family are protected,” Kim said. “It's the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu."
“Flu strains evolve each year, making it crucial to get annual boosters to protect against the latest 2024 flu strains, ensuring everyone stays safe and healthy this winter.”

Recent studies suggest that cell-based flu vaccines are around 10 to 15% more effective at preventing test-confirmed influenza during three recent seasons in the United States compared to traditional egg-based vaccines. An example of a cell-based flu vaccine is Flucelvax Quad, which is now registered and accessible for children aged six months and older. It is currently funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for at-risk populations aged 5 to 64 years.
Adjuvanted vaccines are recommended over the standard influenza vaccine for adults aged 65 years and older. These vaccines boost the immune response, resulting in stronger immunity. They are also funded under the NIP.
The influenza vaccine is also recommended in pregnancy and can be administered safely alongside COVID-19 and other necessary vaccines before delivery.

“The best way to protect your family from the flu this season is by getting vaccinated, we also recommend that your other vaccines, including COVID-19 are up to date for 2024,” Kim added.

“It’s a simple shot, that takes five minutes and can help protect us all. If you have any queries your local 777 Pharmacist is available to support you to make the best decision for you and your family”

For more information on how to book in for your 2024 flu vaccination, please click here, or drop in to your local Pharmacy 777 to talk to your local pharmacist.