Be protected this flu season
Prepare for the flu season by getting your annual flu shot at Complete Care Pharmacy.
The unpredictability of influenza, often referred to as ‘the flu’, means that anyone could be at risk of catching it or experiencing severe complications, including hospitalisation or even death. That’s why we offer the latest influenza vaccines, making it easy for you and your loved ones to stay protected.
Our pharmacy boasts a team of healthcare professionals committed to providing a smooth and efficient vaccination process. Book your flu vaccination with us today, and take a proactive step towards protecting your health against the flu this season.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, with a particular emphasis on:
- People aged 65 and over
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease
- Healthcare workers and caregivers
- People travelling through the flu season
Benefits of flu vaccination
- Reduces the risk of flu illness, hospitalisation, and death
- Important for people at high risk of flu complications
- Helps protect vulnerable community members, including the elderly and young children
The vaccination process
Our streamlined flu vaccination process ensures a safe and comfortable experience:
- Book your appointment online, in-store, or call us.
- Complete a pre-vaccination checklist upon arrival.
- Receive your flu vaccination from one of our qualified healthcare professionals.
- Depending upon the circumstances, you may be asked to remain in our waiting area for a short observation period following the administering of the flu shot.
Specific requirements or considerations
- Bring a form of ID and your Medicare card, if applicable.
- Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.
- Inform us of any medical conditions, allergies or previous reactions to vaccines
How to book an appointment
Walk in for your flu vaccination during pharmacy opening hours at most Complete Care Pharmacy locations.
Prefer to plan ahead? Book online, in store or by phone. Contact your local pharmacy to confirm availability.
*Flu vaccination and Covid-19 vaccination can be administered at the same appointment.
Flu Vaccination Locations
Flu Vaccination - FAQs
Do you offer walk-in appointments?
Some stores provide walk in vaccinations during the week (Monday to Friday). Contact your local Complete Care Pharmacy to confirm whether they provide walk in vaccinations.
Why should I get vaccinated against the flu every year?
Annual flu vaccination is crucial due to the seasonal nature of influenza and the constant evolution of flu viruses. Getting vaccinated annually helps build immunity against common strains predicted to circulate during the upcoming flu season. It reduces the risk of illness, hospitalisation, and severe complications, including death. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone aged six months and older.
Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?
No, this is a myth. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The flu vaccines used in Australia contain either inactivated flu viruses or recombinant technology that cannot cause the flu illness. While some people may experience mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or low-grade fever, these are signs of the body’s immune response, not the flu itself. Flu vaccination is safe and effective.
Who is at high risk of complications from the flu?
Certain groups in Australia are at higher risk of severe complications from the flu, including:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Pregnant women
- Children aged six months to five years
- Adults aged 65 years and older
- People with certain medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems
These groups are more susceptible to flu-related complications, hospitalisation, and even death. Vaccination is especially crucial for them to reduce the risk of severe illness.
When is the best time to get vaccinated against the flu in Australia?
In Australia, the best time to get vaccinated against the flu is before the flu season begins, typically from April to May. However, vaccination can be beneficial even if done later in the season, as flu activity can extend into the winter months. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop immunity against the flu viruses. Since the timing and severity of flu seasons vary, it’s essential to get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine becomes available to ensure optimal protection.
Can I get a flu shot and Covid-19 vaccine at the same time?
Yes, you can get a flu vaccine along with the Covid-19 vaccine.
What are common side effects of a flu vaccination?
Common side effects of receiving the influenza vaccine include:
- drowsiness or tiredness
- muscle aches
- pain, redness and swelling at injection site
- occasionally an injection-site lump (may last many weeks – no treatment needed)
- mild fever.
I'm travelling overseas to the Northern Hemisphere. Will the flu vaccine in Australia protect me?
The flu vaccine between the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere do differ to accommodate the different flu strains predicted to circulate. Whilst, it is ideal to receive the specific Northern Hemisphere flu vaccine, this is typically unavailable in Australia. Therefore, before travel, Australians may receive a second dose of the flu vaccine before departure to help protect against catching the flu in the Northern Hemisphere.
Fees
- Influenza/Flu Shot – $24.95 for ages 5-65 (*free for eligible patients with certain medical conditions under the National Immunisation Program (NIP))
- Influenza/Flu Shot – FREE for ages 65+ under the National Immunisation Program (NIP)
