Flu Vaccinations

Flu shots are now still stock. Private vaccines are available from $20. To book, please call reception or book online.

Like COVID-19 vaccines, this year there are different types of flu vaccines to choose from. Please read the below to help you choose the best vaccine for you.
There are two main flu vaccine technologies; egg-based and cell-based vaccines.

Egg-based Flu Vaccines

• All available flu vaccines, except one, are made using an egg-based manufacturing process that has been used for over 70 years. There are only minute traces of egg protein, and people with egg allergy, including a history of anaphylaxis, can be vaccinated with these influenza vaccines. If you have any questions about egg-based flu vaccines, please ask your GP or nurse.

Cell-based Flu Vaccines (new)

• The flu viruses used in the cell-based vaccines are grown in cultured cells of mammalian origin instead of in hen’s eggs. Cell culture technology has been used to produce other licensed vaccines, including for rotavirus, polio, smallpox, hepatitis, rubella and chickenpox. The cell-based vaccines are not available on the NIP but are available to purchase at our clinic. If you have any questions about cell-based flu vaccines, please ask your GP or nurse.

Do I need to choose which vaccine I’d like before my appointment?

No, if you are unsure which vaccine is most suitable for you, you can discuss this with your GP or nurse during your appointment.

Are you over 65?

All patients 65 years and older are entitled to government-funded vaccines through the NIP as they are more likely to be hospitalised and affected by complications from influenza, such as pneumonia. This age group receives a government-funded influenza vaccine made specifically to boost the immune response for better protection.

Are you over 60?

The Government-recommended high dose influenza vaccine is available privately for purchase in our clinic for patients over 60. This vaccine contains four times the antigen of a standard flu vaccine, and there is evidence that this creates a stronger immune response and better protection against the flu and associated pneumonia in patients aged 60 years and older.

What influenza vaccines are available at your clinic?

Different brands of the flu vaccine from different manufacturers are used and they become available at different times. Some flu vaccines are used only in the funded program, some are used only for private programs and others may be used for both funded and private programs.

Where can I find more information?

More information about the NIP can be found on the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care website at www.health.gov.au/diseases/influenza-flu