Experts are warning that low vaccination rates and an increasing number of confirmed flu cases across the country could create a perfect storm for a severe flu year. Authorities are urging Australians to protect themselves against the flu with a flu vaccine.

NSW Minister for Health, Ryan Park has been urging the community to get vaccinated as soon as possible, emphasising that the flu is far more serious than the common cold that people often mistake it for.

The most effective way to protect yourself against the flu and its complications is to get a flu vaccine. After a flu vaccine it will take up to two weeks to build immunity, with your immunity at its strongest for the 3-4 months after vaccination.

The Australian Influenza Surveillance Report shows flu cases typically rise in May, leading to a peak circulation of the disease in July and August. As Winter is peak season for flu in Australia, now is the time to get a flu vaccine.

Free flu vaccines are available at all Our Medical centres with no appointment necessary. To receive the free flu vaccine, simply come into your nearest centre and check-in to see a bulk billing GP via the 'Our Medical' app.

Click here to find your nearest Our Medical centre.

For patients that don’t have a Medicare card, the vaccine is still free, however patients will need to pay the standard private fee for the GP consultation.