Protect Yourself This Flu Season – Get Your 2026 Influenza Vaccine

As the cooler months approach, flu season becomes a major concern for many people in our community. At Lakeside Medical Practice Warilla, we encourage our patients to protect themselves and their families by getting the annual influenza (flu) vaccination.

The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious illness and complications caused by influenza.

What Is Influenza?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected individuals.

Common flu symptoms include:

• Fever and chills

• Cough and sore throat

• Headaches and muscle aches

• Fatigue and weakness

• Runny or blocked nose

While many people recover within a week, influenza can lead to serious complications, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

Why the Flu Vaccine Is Important

Getting the flu vaccine each year helps:

• Reduce your risk of catching the flu

• Protect vulnerable members of the community

• Reduce the severity of illness if you do get infected

• Prevent complications such as pneumonia and hospitalisation

Because flu viruses change every year, a new vaccine is developed annually to protect against the most common circulating strains.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, but it is especially important for people at higher risk of complications, including:

• Adults aged 65 years and older

• Pregnant women

• Children under 5 years

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

• People with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease

These groups are eligible for free flu vaccines under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Flu Vaccines at Lakeside Medical Practice

At Lakeside Medical Practice, we offer flu vaccinations for both adults and children.

For eligible patients under the National Immunisation Program, the flu vaccine is bulk billed with no cost for the vaccine.

Our doctors and nursing team ensure the vaccination process is quick, safe, and convenient.

When Should You Get Your Flu Shot?

The best time to get vaccinated is before the peak flu season, usually during autumn, so your body has time to build immunity before winter.

However, it is still beneficial to get vaccinated later in the season if you have not yet received your flu shot.

Book Your Flu Vaccine Today

Protect yourself and those around you by getting your annual flu vaccination.

At Lakeside Medical Practice Warilla, we are committed to helping our community stay healthy throughout the flu season.

To book your flu vaccine appointment, please contact our reception team or book online.