Simple ways to control flu spread include: annual flu vaccination and practicing good personal hygiene e.g. washing hands, wiping over frequently touched surfaces with a clean cloth and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

An annual flu vaccination is recommended for any person above the age of six. For individuals in a high-risk category, the flu can be a potentially fatal illness.

The National Health and Medical Research Council strongly recommends annual vaccinations for people with:

• Heart conditions
• Severe asthma
• Lung conditions
• Diabetes
• Kidney problems
• Impaired immunity
• Malignant cancers
• Pregnant women
• Chronic neurological disorders

Please speak to your GP prior to vaccination if:

• You have a severe infection with a high fever (≥ 38.5°C)
• You have previously had Guillain-Barré Syndrome
• You are taking any medication
• You are severely allergic to chicken products e.g. eggs and feathers
• You are receiving cancer immuno-oncology therapies

Although most medications are not affected by the flu vaccination, it can sometimes increase their toxicity and should be administered under the supervision of your regular doctor.

The only absolute contraindications to influenza vaccines are:

• Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)after a previous dose of any influenza vaccine
• Anaphylaxis from any component of an influenza vaccine

The vaccine is composed of inactivated or dead virus which cannot cause the flu. Approximately 10% of recipients can develop fever, fatigue and muscle aches following a vaccination. However, please note that these symptoms only last a few days. Individuals with influenza tend to be unwell for longer.

The nurse will discuss your symptoms with you on the day and vaccinate at their discretion.

Like any medication, some people may experience unexpected reactions to the vaccine.

Common side effects include:

• Pain, redness, swelling or a temporary small lump at the injection site
• Low-grade temperature
• Headache or muscle aches
• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Generally feeling unwell

Most side effects are minor, last a short time, resolve without any treatment and do not lead to any long-term problems.

Generally, mild side effects appear within 6–12 hours of vaccination. As with any medication, (rare) severe allergic reactions usually occur within 15 minutes of receiving the vaccination. It is therefore important that you wait 15 minutes after receiving the vaccination before leaving.

As with all vaccinations and medications, there is a rare possibility individuals may experience an anaphylactic reaction.

Sonic HealthPlus recommend that the following people consult their usual health professional to discuss their suitability for the vaccine:

• Workers who have previously reacted to the vaccine or a vaccine component
• Workers who have previously had Guillain-Barré Syndrome
• Workers with a history of anaphylaxis or a severe reaction to eggs or egg products.

Yes, the flu vaccination can be safely given during any stage of pregnancy. Pregnant women are more susceptible todeveloping severe flu symptoms or associated complications. Vaccinating during pregnancy not only protectsthe mother but also provides ongoing protection to the newborn baby for the first six months after birth.

We can vaccinate any women whoare experiencing a normal pregnancy with no complications.

The vaccination will be administered by a nurse who has current emergency procedure training and the necessary equipment in accordance with state and territory regulations.

While around 10% of recipients may develop temporary symptoms at the site of the injection, you can continue with your usual work and recreational activities if you feel well 15 minutes after the vaccination.

Our national flu program is very popular and is generally booked out months in advance. Changing the confirmed date of your onsite vaccination program is at the discretion of the National Flu Coordinator and based on scheduling and resourcing. Programs will not be rescheduled less than a week before the confirmed date.

You may contact the National Flu Coordinator to purchase an in-clinic voucher.

Sonic HealthPlus will order the number of requested vaccines seven days prior to the vaccination date. The bookings diary for employees is closed one business day before the scheduled date and booking numbers are finalised. Final numbers can be no less than 10% of the original request. For example, if 40 vaccines are requested seven days prior to your scheduled booking, the minimum charge will be for 36 vaccines. This same condition applies to “No-Shows” on the day of on-site vaccinations.

No. Vouchers can only be redeemed at a Sonic HealthPlus or Travel Doctor-TMVC Clinic.

Vouchers can also be redeemed at a Travel Doctor-TMVC Clinic. Sonic HealthPlus has over 50 clinics across Australia and vouchers can be redeemed at any of these clinics before 30 August 2024.

Find your nearest clinic

We offer both in-clinic and onsite flu programs that are flexible and affordable. To talk to someone about organising your flu program this year, contact us on 1300 339 557 (ext 3) or at flu@sonichealthplus.com.au

Click here to view our service considerations.

Yes, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has advised that both  vaccines can be given at the same time.

No, the flu and COVID-19 are both caused by different viruses so the COVID-19 vaccine will not protect you from contracting the flu. For women who receive the influenza vaccine prior to becoming pregnant, revaccination is recommended during pregnancy to maximise the protection of the infant in their first six months of life.