Are You Prepared for the 2025 Flu Season? Get a flu shot at Our Medical

Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Tony Lawler, has raised alarms about the ongoing decline in flu vaccination rates across all age groups, with particular concern for vulnerable populations such as Australians aged over 65, children under five, pregnant women and First Nations people. The annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months and older, but the uptake has been steadily falling.

There has been a concerning decrease in vaccination rates among the elderly and pregnant women. For example, flu vaccination rates among Australians aged 65 and older dropped from 69.7% in 2022 to 63.6% in 2023, and further declined to 61.1% in 2024. This decline is alarming, as the elderly are at a higher risk of severe complications from influenza.

Pregnant women also face increased risks of hospitalisation due to influenza, yet their vaccination rates remain suboptimal, posing a significant concern. Professor Lawler stressed that First Nations communities have also seen the lowest vaccination rates, with flu vaccination uptake in First Nations children under five dropping from 23.1% in 2023 to 18.3% in 2024. This trend must be reversed to prevent further health disparities.

What This Means For You The numbers are concerning, and the impact of low vaccination rates could mean a particularly challenging flu season ahead. As a result, it’s critical to ensure that you and your loved ones are protected against the flu by getting vaccinated. The 2025 influenza season is fast approaching, and flu vaccines are already available at Our Medical. Flu vaccines are a simple yet highly effective measure in reducing the risk of severe illness. Whether you’re a young child, elderly adult, pregnant woman, or someone with underlying health conditions, the flu vaccine can protect you from potentially serious complications, including hospitalisation and death.

What You Can Do With vaccination rates on the decline, it’s more important than ever to get your flu shot early. The peak influenza season typically runs from June to September in most parts of Australia, vaccines recommended starting in April for maximum protection during the peak season. Flu vaccines are available now, which means now is the time to act.

Flu Vaccines Available at Our Medical At Our Medical, we’re committed to providing access to quality healthcare for all. GPs are ready to provide flu vaccinations to patients of all ages. No appointment is necessary—simply walk-in to a centre near you and check-in via the Our Medical app to receive your flu shot from one of our experienced GPs. Don’t wait for the flu season to hit. Get vaccinated today to protect yourself and those around you.

Get your flu shot at Our Medical today. Let’s work together to protect the community.

- Source RACGP