Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It affects your nose, throat and lungs, and while many people recover within a week or two, the flu can lead to serious complications — particularly during the Australian winter. An annual Flu Vaccination remains the single most effective way to reduce your risk, protect vulnerable family members, and stay well through the colder months.
Recognising the Symptoms of Influenza
The flu often comes on suddenly and tends to hit harder than a common cold. Common symptoms include:
- Fever and chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches and headaches
- Fatigue that lingers for days
- Vomiting and diarrhoea (more common in children)
While the symptoms can resemble a heavy cold, the flu tends to be more severe and can leave you bedridden for days. If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is a cold or the flu, it’s worth speaking with your GP.
Who Should Get a Flu Vaccination?
Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Dosing varies based on age and health:
- Children aged 6 months to 8 years may need two doses the first time they are vaccinated.
- Older children and adults generally need one shot each year.
- Pregnant women can safely receive a single dose in any trimester.
- Older adults may receive a high-dose or specially formulated vaccine for stronger protection.
Your GP can help determine the right type and dose for you and your family. If you’re planning your winter health priorities, our Winter 2026 guide to flu, COVID-19 and RSV is a useful starting point. Families with younger kids can also review our children’s health services in Liverpool NSW for immunisations across every age group.
Why Flu Vaccination Matters
1. It Reduces Your Risk of Getting Sick
A flu shot helps your immune system recognise and fight the virus. Even if you do catch the flu, vaccinated people generally experience milder symptoms and recover faster — and are less likely to develop complications such as a chest infection.
2. It Protects People at Higher Risk
Some people are far more vulnerable to severe flu illness, including infants, older adults, pregnant women, and people living with asthma, diabetes or heart disease. By getting vaccinated, you reduce the chance of passing the virus on to those who could become seriously unwell. Patients managing respiratory conditions may also benefit from a personalised asthma action plan alongside their annual flu shot.
3. It Keeps Up With New Flu Strains
The influenza virus changes every year. The Australian flu vaccine is updated annually to match the strains most likely to circulate during our winter, which is why a new shot each year is essential — last year’s protection isn’t enough. For the current recommendations, the Australian Department of Health publishes seasonal guidance for the annual Flu Vaccination programme.
4. It Supports Community Protection
When enough people in a community are vaccinated, the virus has fewer opportunities to spread. This ‘herd immunity’ helps protect those who can’t be vaccinated, including very young infants and people with certain medical conditions.
5. It Helps Prevent Serious Illness
Influenza can lead to lung infections, breathing difficulties and other complications that may require hospital care. For some people, the flu can be life-threatening. Vaccination reduces both the chance of getting sick and the severity of the illness if you do.
6. It Supports Your Overall Health
For people already managing heart or lung conditions, the flu can make existing health problems significantly worse. An annual Flu Vaccination is a simple, practical step to help protect your long-term health — especially through the colder months. Pairing it with an up-to-date whooping cough immunisation gives you broader winter protection against common respiratory illnesses.
When Should You Get Your Flu Vaccination in Australia?
The Australian flu season typically runs from around June to September, with cases often peaking in August. Health authorities generally recommend getting vaccinated from April onwards, so you’re well protected before flu activity rises. It takes around two weeks after the shot for your body to build full immunity.
Red Flags — When to Seek Urgent Care
Most flu cases can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter relief. However, you should seek urgent medical attention if you or a family member experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Blue lips or face
- Confusion or trouble staying awake
- A fever above 39 °C in infants
- Symptoms that improve and then suddenly return worse
If you’re feeling unwell, our local GPs in Liverpool, NSW can assess your symptoms and provide appropriate care, including antiviral options where suitable.
Book Your Flu Vaccination at Trinity Healthcare Centre
Getting your annual flu shot is one of the simplest things you can do for your health — and the health of those around you. It only takes a few minutes and could keep you out of hospital this winter. If it’s been a while since your last visit, a general winter health check-up is also a great time to review your immunisations.
Speak with your GP at Trinity Healthcare Centre in Liverpool, NSW to organise your Flu Vaccination and stay protected this season. Eligible patients can also learn more about our bulk billing options for GP consultations.
