Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch President, Chris Owen, said the school holidays provided families with a timely opportunity to protect themselves and their loved ones.
“School holidays give families an opportunity to protect their children before they return to school, while also helping protect grandparents and other vulnerable family members,” said Mr. Owen.
“It is not too late to get your free flu vaccination, with Queensland’s flu season commonly peaking in July,” Mr. Owen said.
“Whether families are travelling, visiting relatives or spending more time together at home, vaccination can help protect the whole household, particularly young children, older Queenslanders and people living with chronic health conditions.”
“This year, in particular, the Queensland Government has made it even easier for children to access flu vaccinations by including nasal spray flu vaccines for children aged from 6-17,” Mr. Owen said, “this option is proving particularly popular in community pharmacies across the state.”
“Community pharmacies are located in almost every town and suburb across Queensland, making it easy for families to access a free influenza vaccination close to home.”
“Under the Queensland Government’s Free Flu Vaccination Program, all Queenslanders aged six months and older can access a free influenza vaccination through participating community pharmacies until 30 September 2026,” said Mr. Owen.
Influenza can cause serious illness at any age, and vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.
The vaccine can take up to two weeks to reach maximum effectiveness, making it important for Queenslanders to act before influenza activity increases further.
The latest Australian Centre for Disease Control figures show 10,500 influenza cases have been recorded across the state this year.
Visit findapharmacy.com.au to find a participating community pharmacy and book your free flu vaccination.