The Victorian government's free flu shot program has been extended to cover the school holidays following positive feedback from participating GPs and pharmacies. The program will continue to 10 July.
Throughout June all Victorians aged six months and over have been eligible for a free flu shot from more than 2,000 GP clinics and community pharmacies across the state.
The state funded program was implemented because Victoria’s collective immunity against viruses like the flu is relatively low following two years of physical distancing and reduced international travel.
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The flu shot is already free for children under five years, people over 65 years, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with increased risk medical conditions.
The program was originally set to cost $33 million. Under the plan, the state government will reimburse GPs and community pharmacies for flu vaccines that are administered to any Victorians that are not usually eligible for free flu shots – i.e. everyone not included in the above – so that immunisation providers can continue to use vaccines that they have already purchased.
“As many Victorians have experienced firsthand already, this is shaping up to be the most aggressive flu season we’ve seen since the start of the pandemic, with thousands of cases being recorded across the state each week,” new health minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“We’ve been heartened by the huge turnout from Victorians so far for the flu shot, but we can do even better – that’s why we’re extending this program so more people can access this free service. Getting vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu not only keeps the pressure off our hospitals, but also gives you and your loved ones the best protection possible over the winter period.”
