Key points
- Influenza – also known as the flu – is an infection caused by a type of influenza virus.
- The influenza (flu) vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect your child from getting sick with the blue.
- If your child is above six months of age, they should get the flu vaccine.
- It is best to get your child vaccinated for the flu every year before the start of winter.
- In Australia, the flu vaccine is free for children aged from six months to five years, and those at higher risk of becoming very sick with the flu.
- Children under nine years who get the flu vaccine for the first time require two doses given four weeks apart.
- The most common side effects of the flu vaccine are pain and redness at the injection site.
What is the flu vaccine?
Influenza (in-floo-en-zuh) – also known as the flu – is an infection caused by a type of influenza virus. It is a contagious illness that any child can catch, but children
under five years are more likely to get very sick.
The flu vaccine is the best and safest way to protect your child from becoming sick with the flu. It works by building your child’s immunity to flu viruses.
Many companies make flu vaccines specifically for children, and different brands of the same vaccine have different names, such as FluQuadri and Fluarix Tetra.
Does my child need a flu vaccine?
Your child should get a flu vaccine if they are above six months of age. It is best to get them vaccinated for the flu every year before the start of winter.
In Australia, the flu vaccine is free for children aged six months to five years and those at higher risk of getting sick with the flu.
Children with chronic medical conditions are at risk of more serious illness from the flu. If your child has a chronic condition, you should strongly consider vaccinating
them for the flu. All household members should also get vaccinated to lower the chances of your child being around flu viruses.
How is the flu vaccine given to children?
The flu vaccine is an injection that goes into a muscle – usually in the upper arm for children or the thigh for babies. Children under nine years who get the flu vaccine for the first time require two doses given four weeks apart, while children over
nine only need one dose each year.
When should my child get the flu vaccine?
Flu viruses change yearly, so companies must make new vaccines to protect against the most common strains.
For most of Australia, the flu virus season is from June to September. It is best to get your child vaccinated before the start of winter – usually April or May – to ensure the best protection during the peak flu season. However, your child can still
catch the flu outside of the typical season, so it is never too late to vaccinate.
Possible side effects of the flu vaccine
Vaccines protect people from diseases, but sometimes they have side effects.
Two common side effects of the flu vaccine are pain and redness at the injection site. Less commonly, children may get a fever or aches and pains lasting one or two days.
The flu vaccine cannot give your child the flu.
Your child will be watched for 15 minutes after their flu vaccine to ensure they do not have a reaction.
Call an ambulance (000) immediately if your child has any signs of a severe allergic reaction such as:
- difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- fainting.
The flu vaccine may have other side effects. If you are concerned or notice anything unusual after your child’s vaccine, speak to your child’s doctor.
Common questions about the flu vaccine
Is the flu vaccine safe?
The flu vaccine is safe and effective for children and adults. All vaccines available in Australia must pass strict safety testing before being approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
How long does the flu vaccine last?
The flu vaccine protects against the flu for about 3 to 4 months from vaccination.
Is the flu vaccine free?
The flu vaccine is free for children aged six months to five years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women and people with medical conditions (such as chronic heart or lung disease, low immunity or diabetes).
Where can my child get a flu vaccine?
Many places offer flu vaccinations, including doctor's clinics, council immunisation services and some pharmacies.
My child is allergic to eggs. Can they still get the flu vaccine?
If your child is allergic or anaphylactic to eggs, they can still safely get the flu vaccine. These allergies do not increase the risk of allergy or side effects from the vaccine.
Can my child get the flu vaccine and other scheduled vaccines at the same time?
Your child can get the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines on the National Immunisation Program.
Multiple vaccines at once do not overwhelm the immune system or cause increased side effects.
This podcast is also available in audio format below, and on Apple Podcasts and
Spotify.
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For more information
This fact sheet provides practical advice about this vaccine in children and young people. You should also read the information from the vaccine manufacturer at NPS MedicineWise.
Developed by The Royal Children’s Hospital Immunisation service. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers.
Reviewed April 2025
Please always seek the most recent advice from a registered and practising clinician.