Are you eligible for free vaccinations?

Author: Carolyn Clementson B. Pharm

Stay safe! Get vaccinated! Vaccines work with your body’s natural defences to build protection and reduce the risk of infection. We have vaccines to prevent more than 20 life-threatening diseases, helping people of all ages live longer, healthier lives. Free vaccinations make it even easier to ensure your vaccines are up to date.

Let’s talk flu first! This year, all Queensland residents over the age of 6 months can access the influenza vaccine for free. The 2024 Free Influenza Vaccination Program, funded by the Queensland Government, has now commenced and will conclude on 30 September 2024. 

Outside of Queensland, pharmacists are now able to provide access to National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines, funded by the Commonwealth Government. Eligible patients, entitled to NIP flu vaccines, can now book a flu vaccination in pharmacy, free of charge. Eligible patients include people aged over 65 years, pregnant women and people who have medical conditions that increase the risk of serious disease from an influenza infection.

It’s not just flu vaccines either! All eligible Australians are entitled to free COVID-19 vaccines.  If you are ready for your next COVID-19 vaccine dose, book online .

Did you know pharmacists can now provide a range of free NIP vaccines to eligible patients? These vaccines include whooping cough (diphtheria, tetanus & pertussis), shingles, pneumococcal, human papillomavirus (HPV), and meningococcal ACWY. To find out more or to book your vaccination, click here.