The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland, is urging anyone who hasn’t yet had their annual flu vaccination to visit their local participating community pharmacy before the Queensland Government’s Free Flu Vaccination Program ends on Wednesday 30 September.
Queensland Health recorded 3450 influenza cases in the week ending 6 September, up 13% from 3061 notifications the previous week. From 1 January to 6 September, Queensland recorded 24459 influenza cases, with 2131 influenza-associated hospital admissions.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch President Chris Owen said the increase reminded everyone that the risk of influenza does not disappear when winter ends.
“Winter might be over, but flu is still spreading in our communities,” Mr Owen said.
“If you’ve been meaning to get your flu vaccination, now is the time. Cases are climbing and the free program is coming to an end.”
“More than 1.7 million Queenslanders have received their flu vaccination this year. If you haven’t had yours, there’s still time to join them before the free program ends,” Mr Owen said.
Mr Owen said vaccination could help reduce the risk of serious illness, particularly for young children, older people and those living with chronic health conditions.
“It can take up to two weeks for protection to develop after vaccination, so there’s good reason to act now,” he said. “Your local community pharmacy makes it convenient to get vaccinated close to home. Don’t let the deadline pass when you can take this simple step to help protect yourself and your family.”
The Queensland Government’s Free Flu Vaccination Program is available to Queenslanders aged six months and older until 30 September 2026.
Think Pharmacy First. To find a participating community pharmacy and book your free flu vaccination, visit findapharmacy.com.au.