As cooler weather begins to settle across Australia, influenza activity is already increasing earlier than usual. Health experts are encouraging people to get vaccinated ahead of winter to help reduce the risk of illness - both for individuals and the wider community. The flu vaccine remains a safe, effective and well established way to protect yourself, your family and those around you.

An Early Start to the 2026 Flu Season

Australia has recorded close to 25,000 laboratory confirmed flu cases by the end of March 2026, which is earlier than typically seen in many seasons. This follows a very high influenza burden in 2025, when more than 500,000 cases and 1,738 influenza associated deaths were reported nationally. While seasons can vary year to year, early increases in case numbers are an important reminder to prepare ahead of winter. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP, 2026) has advised that early vaccination can help reduce the impact of influenza as the colder months approach. “Practices have been receiving their 2026 flu vaccinations, and many will be running flu clinics to make it quick and easy to reduce your risk of serious illness,” said RACGP President Dr Michael Wright.¹</p>

Why Population Immunity Matters

During the height of COVID 19 restrictions, influenza circulation was significantly reduced. While that led to fewer flu cases at the time, it also means many people have had less recent exposure to influenza viruses. Public health experts note that this can result in higher susceptibility, particularly among young children and older adults who may not have built up recent immunity through exposure or vaccination. Annual vaccination helps refresh protection and supports broader community immunity.

Multiple Respiratory Viruses Circulating This Winter

This winter, influenza is circulating alongside COVID 19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), all of which contribute to respiratory illness during the cooler months. National surveillance reports show that managing these viruses together helps reduce strain on primary care and hospital services. Health authorities are also monitoring circulating influenza strains, including a variant of influenza A (H3N2) that has been identified internationally and detected in Australia. Updated vaccine formulations have been designed to provide protection against current strains.

Why The Fu Shot Is Worth Getting Each Year

1. Helps Reduce the Risk of Complications

For most people, the flu can be an uncomfortable illness. For others — including older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions — it can lead to complications such as pneumonia or hospitalisation. Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness and can make symptoms milder if you do become infected.

2. Supports the Health System During Winter

Every winter, healthcare services experience increased demand. Vaccination is one of the simplest ways individuals can help reduce pressure on clinics and hospitals by preventing avoidable illness. Even a modest reduction in flu related presentations can make a meaningful difference during peak periods.

3. Protects People Around You

Influenza can be spread before symptoms appear, meaning people can unintentionally pass the virus on. By getting vaccinated, you help protect those more vulnerable — including babies, elderly relatives and people with weakened immune systems — and reduce overall community spread.

4. The 2026 Vaccine Reflects Current Strains

Influenza viruses change from year to year, which is why annual vaccination is recommended. The 2026 flu vaccine has been formulated to match currently circulating strains and offers the best available protection for this season. Even if you were vaccinated last year, a new dose is needed for ongoing protection.

Flu Vaccination Available at Our Medical

Health authorities recommend influenza vaccination for everyone aged six months and older, with particular emphasis on people at higher risk of complications. Flu vaccinations are available at Our Medical. • No appointment required • Simply visit the centre and check in using the Our Medical app • Our GPs can provide personalised advice based on your health history Getting vaccinated early helps ensure protection is in place before flu activity peaks later in winter.

Our Medical. Simply come into the centre and and check-in to see a GP using the Our Medical app.

References

1. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). 25,000 flu cases by March means it’s time to vaccinate (31 March 2026).
2. 9News. Doctors encourage Australians to book flu vaccinations early (31 March 2026).
3. Australian Centre for Disease Control. Australian Respiratory Surveillance Report – February–March 2026.
4. YourLifeChoices. Flu activity and vaccine updates for 2026 (31 March 2026). undefined