Winter vaccinations help protect older people from serious illness
The Australian Government reminds people to stay up to date with vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19 and RSV
As winter approaches, the Australian Government strongly encourages older people to get vaccinated against influenza (the flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This is crucial as older people face a higher risk of serious illness and hospitalisation from respiratory viruses.
Vaccination from March or April onwards when vaccines are available is recommended to ensure people are well protected during the winter months of June to September, when respiratory viruses are most widespread.
The protection from vaccines can decrease over time, making it important for individuals to stay up to date. Older adults can get influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations at the same appointment or at a separate visit. Individuals are encouraged to talk to their health professional.
Key information:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine: All eligible people aged 65 and over, who hold or are eligible for a Medicare card, can get a free flu vaccine each year under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
- COVID-19 vaccine: People aged 65 to 74 years can get a free COVID-19 vaccination every 12 months, while people aged 75 years and older can get a free COVID-19 vaccination every six months.
- RSV vaccine: From 15 May this year, the RSV vaccine is free under the NIP for eligible people aged 75 years and over, who hold or are eligible for a Medicare card.
To help diverse communities get information about winter vaccinations, translated resources are available in up to 14 languages: Arabic, Mandarin, Cantonese, Greek, Italian, Turkish, Vietnamese, Croatian, Korean, Macedonian, Punjabi, Russian, Serbian and Spanish.
For more information, click here: health.gov.au/winter-vaccinations.
Quotes attributable to Dr. Michelle Ly, General Practitioner, MyHealth Leichhardt:
“While we continue to see a strong concern among older individuals regarding respiratory viruses, improving vaccination rates is essential to protect our families and communities.
“If you or a loved one are 65 or over, it is important to remember that vaccinations are the best way to protect against serious illness. The best way to ensure you are up to date and address any concerns you may have regarding vaccines is to discuss your options with either your GP or pharmacist.”
Quotes attributable to Kitty Leong, Senior Executive Officer, Chinese Australian Services Society (CASS):
“In aged care, we see firsthand how quickly respiratory viruses can spread during the winter months, particularly as residents spend more time indoors and in shared spaces.
“Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to help protect older people from serious illness, and it plays an important role in keeping both residents and the wider community safe.”
