Free flu immunisation for children under five
Published on 25 May 2023
Horsham Rural City Council children aged between six months and under five years can get free flu shots.
Manager Community Services and Safety Mandi Stewart said the Health Department recommended people aged six months and over get the annual vaccination, unless there was a medical reason not to.
“Vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications,” Ms Stewart said.
“While everyone has been focussed on COVID-19 vaccines in recent years, the influenza vaccine is just as important.
“We strongly recommend people get the shot to keep their families and community safe. It’s not mandatory but is available for those who want it,” she said.
The Australian Government supplies seasonal influenza vaccines through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for people most at risk.
Due to their increased risk of complications from the flu, the following groups can get flu shots for free. However Council is only able to vaccinate the under-fives. Flu vaccinations are also available through local GPs and chemists.
- All children aged six months to less than five years
- All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
- Pregnant women (during any stage of pregnancy)
- All people aged 65 years and over
- People aged six months and over with medical conditions which increase the risk of flu complications.
Children who have not received a flu vaccination before will require a booster dose 28 days later.
Bookings for children over 6 months and under 5 years: