Adapted from ATAGI Statement on the administration of seasonal influenza vaccines in 2022

It’s that time of year again! As we head into the colder months (especially in Oberon) we start to look at protecting ourselves against influenza.

Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications. It is recommended for all people ≥6 months of age.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been reduced circulation of influenza virus and lower levels of influenza vaccine coverage compared with previous years. With borders reopening, a resurgence of influenza is expected in 2022. People who are planning international travel should ensure they have had a 2022 influenza vaccination before departure.

All COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered (given on the same day) with an influenza vaccine. 

For adults aged ≥65 years, the adjuvanted influenza vaccine is preferentially recommended over standard influenza vaccine. There is no preference for use between either Fluad® Quad or Fluzone HighDose Quadrivalent in this age group.

Annual vaccination should ideally occur before the onset of each influenza season. The period of peak influenza circulation is typically June to September in most parts of Australia. However, influenza epidemiology may be atypical this year, particularly in the context of COVID-19 and the return of international travel. Some Northern Hemisphere countries have seen a concurrent surge of influenza and COVID-19 activity. Vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications.

While protection is generally expected to last throughout the year, the highest level of protection occurs in the first 3 to 4 months after vaccination – so vaccination in April will give you good protection over the winter months!

The following people are more at risk of complications from influenza and are eligible for annual influenza vaccination free under the National Immunisation Program:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
• Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• People aged 65 years or over.

People aged 6 months or over who have medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of getting serious disease:

• cardiac disease
• chronic respiratory conditions
• chronic neurological conditions
• immunocompromising conditions
• diabetes and other metabolic disorders
• renal disease
• haematological disorders
• children aged six months to 10 years on long term aspirin therapy.

Children under nine years receiving their influenza vaccination for the first time require two doses of vaccine, spaced by a minimum of one month.

Flu vaccinations are available at Oberon Pharmacy on Tuesdays and Thursdays for anyone aged 10 years and older– no appointment necessary! Flu vaccinations cost $24.95.

Give us a call on 6336 1466 for more information.