A Health Update for the Hills: Preparing for Flu Season 2026
Our 2026 flu season update is here to help your family stay healthy and cozy this winter. This guide covers important new vaccine updates, timing recommendations for peak protection, and a clear list of who is eligible for free shots under the National Immunisation Program. At Emerald Medical Centre, we believe prevention is the heart of good care, so we’ve also included simple daily habits to help keep respiratory illnesses at bay. We invite you to read more and chat with our friendly team about the best protection plan for your loved ones.
As winter approaches, the Hills community begins to settle into the familiar comforts of the cooler months—warmer meals, cozy evenings, and more time spent indoors with family. But alongside these seasonal changes comes an increase in respiratory illnesses, particularly influenza.
At Emerald Medical Centre, we’re encouraging our community to take early steps to prepare for the 2026 flu season and protect both individual and public health.
Why Vaccination Remains Essential
Influenza is more than just a common cold. It can develop suddenly and lead to significant illness, especially for young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions.
Annual flu vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection and minimise the severity of symptoms. Even when the flu is contracted, vaccinated individuals are far less likely to experience complications such as pneumonia, hospitalisation, or worsening of existing medical conditions.
Beyond personal protection, vaccination also plays an important role in reducing the spread of illness within the community—helping protect vulnerable family members, colleagues, and the wider population.
What’s New for 2026
This year brings a few important updates to influenza vaccination:
- Fluad® (adjuvanted influenza vaccine) is now recommended for individuals aged 50 to 64 years (privately funded), offering an additional option for those seeking enhanced immune response.
- A nasal spray flu vaccine (commonly known as FluMist®) is available for children and adolescents aged 2–17 years and is privately funded. This can be a useful option for patients who prefer to avoid injections. It is administered by a doctor or nurse as a spray into both nostrils.
- Children over 2 years old receiving the flu vaccine for the first time now require only one dose, simplifying the process for families.
Our team at Emerald Medical Centre will have these updated vaccine options available and can guide patients on the most appropriate choice based on their age and health needs.
Understanding Flu Season Timing
While influenza can circulate year-round, Australia’s peak flu season typically occurs between May and October, with the highest number of cases seen during June and July.
Timing your vaccination is important. Protection is strongest within the first few months after receiving the vaccine, so getting vaccinated early in the season helps ensure you’re covered during peak transmission periods.
COVID-19 and Ongoing Protection
COVID-19 continues to be present in the community, particularly during the winter months when respiratory viruses are more active.
Staying up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations—alongside your annual flu shot—provides an added layer of protection against severe illness. For many adults, yearly boosters are recommended, while those at higher risk may benefit from more frequent updates.
Your GP or nurse can help determine the best vaccination schedule based on your individual health profile.
Stay Ahead of Flu Season – Secure Your Appointment Today
Book here Book hereWho Is Eligible for Free Vaccination?
Under the National Immunisation Program, certain groups are eligible to receive the influenza vaccine at no cost. These include:
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Pregnant individuals
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Individuals with specific chronic medical conditions
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, our team is happy to assist.
Other Winter Illnesses to Watch For
Influenza isn’t the only illness that becomes more common during winter. Other respiratory viruses—such as adenoviruses and human metapneumovirus—can also circulate, causing symptoms like cough, fever, sore throat, and fatigue.
While these illnesses may vary in severity, they can still disrupt daily life and spread easily within households and workplaces.
Simple Steps to Stay Well This Winter
In addition to vaccination, small everyday habits can make a significant difference in protecting your health:
- Stay home if you are feeling unwell
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid close contact with others when sick
- Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or persist
These simple measures help reduce transmission and keep both you and your community safer.
Protecting Your Family and Community
Taking proactive steps now can help you avoid illness later. Vaccination is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and those who may be more vulnerable.
At Emerald Medical Centre, we believe that prevention is at the heart of good healthcare. Our team is committed to providing accessible, up-to-date advice and supporting you in making informed decisions about your health.
We’re Here to Support You
Emerald Medical Centre continues to serve the Hills community with a strong focus on preventative care, patient education, and long-term wellbeing.
If you’d like to learn more about flu vaccinations or discuss what’s right for you and your family, our experienced GPs and nurses are here to help.
Feel free to fill the form below. We will respond in 24 hours.
Please note confidential information sent over the public email network or via the contact form is not secure and not a preferred method of communicating. Please either phone or fax sensitive information.
