Joint media release with Northern NSW Local Health District and Mid North Coast Local Health District.
North Coast residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves – or consider a needle-free option for their kids – as the 2026 flu season approaches.
Healthy North Coast, Mid North Coast Local Health District and Northern NSW Local Health District are reminding the community that influenza is a serious illness that can lead to hospitalisation, particularly for young children, older people, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.
With over 29,000 cases reported in Australia to date, influenza cases typically peak between June and September. North Coast residents aged six months and older are being urged to get their vaccinations now to maximise protection in the community.
Dr Sarah Mollard, GP and Medical Educator at Healthy North Coast, said getting vaccinated early is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and others:
“The flu vaccine helps protect people who are more likely to get very sick – young children, pregnant women, people aged 65 and over, and people with long-term health conditions. These groups are more likely to end up in hospital with severe influenza, and vaccination is the best way to prevent this.
“Having the flu vaccine during pregnancy is especially important. It helps protect the mother while she is pregnant and also gives the baby some protection for up to six months after birth.
“As a working mum, it can be hard to find the time and energy to take my kids to the clinic for their flu vaccination, however knowing the vaccine will protect my family from getting really sick and reduce any time off work due to illness makes it worth the effort.”
Robin Auld, Associate Director North Coast Population and Public Health, added:
“A flu shot is necessary every year because the influenza virus changes over time and the vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most recent and common strains.”
New needle-free option available
If your child is two, three or four years old, this year they can get a free nasal spray flu vaccine.
The nasal spray – called FluMist – is a quick, painless alternative to a traditional flu shot, delivered once into each nostril. Although newly available in Australia, it has been safely given to millions of children in the Northern Hemisphere for more than a decade.
The nasal spray vaccine is available through GPs, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and participating pharmacies. FluMist is also available to purchase for children aged five and over, and costs around $40-$50.
Free vaccines for those most at risk
Free influenza vaccines are available under the National Immunisation Program for:
- children aged six months to under five years
- pregnant women
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
- people aged 65 years and over
- people with certain medical conditions
Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness and complications from influenza.
Flu vaccines are available through your local GP, pharmacy and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation. Everyone aged over two years can get vaccinated at their local pharmacy, but parents with children aged under two should see their doctor. You can also use Healthdirect’s Service Finder to find your nearest vaccine provider.
For more information on the flu, visit health.nsw.gov.au/flu or hnc.org.au/flu.
For more information on vaccination and NSW immunisation programs visit: health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation.
