Influenza, commonly known as ‘the flu’, is a condition caused when an influenza virus infects the respiratory tract – your nose and lungs.
Influenza infection usually has different symptoms and causes a more severe illness than the ‘common cold’ which is a viral infection mostly caused by rhinovirus. Influenza may be a life-threatening infection in some people.
Australian flu outbreaks are usually seasonal, occurring from late autumn through winter and into early spring.
Influenza vaccination (the flu shot) offers a high degree of protection against the flu and its severe consequences.
There are several different influenza viruses and strains. The type usually changes from year to year, so the recommended vaccine also changes from year to year.
See your doctor for a flu shot every year in early autumn. The vaccine is recommended and provided free of charge for all people aged 6 months and over with asthma.
Influenza (the flu) is a highly contagious infection of the airways and for some people can require hospitalisation and can cause death.
While cold and flu symptoms might seem similar at first, the flu can become serious. Typical flu symptoms can include:
Children’s symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Influenza vaccines used in Australia do not contain any live viruses, so you cannot get the flu from a flu shot.
While the vaccine may not be 100% effective in all people, it remains the single most effective way to prevent influenza.
Serious reactions to the flu shot are rare. The most common side-effects are skin redness and swelling where you had the injection.
Allergic reactions are uncommon but may occur in people with a severe egg allergy. If you have an egg allergy, check with your doctor or pharmacist before getting a flu shot.
Anyone can contract the flu. Being fit and healthy doesn’t stop infection. The flu is highly contagious, so protecting yourself can also help protect those close to you.
The types of viruses circulating in the community usually change from year to year. You need an annual flu shot to give you immunity against current strains of influenza viruses.
If you have a minor illness without fever, vaccination is fine, especially if you are in one of the groups at risk of serious complications. These include people with heart conditions, asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, neuromuscular disorders and impaired immunity.
There is growing evidence that vaccination during pregnancy protects the mother from serious illness and the infant during the first months of life. It’s safe to give at any stage during pregnancy. It’s safe while breastfeeding.
Did you have the flu or a cold? The vaccine doesn’t protect against colds.
Look out for asthma symptoms and follow your written asthma action plan. It is important to have an up to date asthma action plan because viral infections are a common trigger of asthma attacks.
If you feel unwell:
Department of Health: health.vic.gov.au/immunisation/seasonal-influenza-vaccine
Lung Foundation Australia: lungfoundation.com.au/patients-carers/living-with-a-lung-disease/other-lung-conditions/influenza/
Disclaimer: It is important to note that information contained in this fact sheet is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.
