New South Wales has entered 'flu season' this autumn, 2025. The Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section (RFDSSE) is urging the public to help slow the flu's spread by getting vaccinated.
What is the flu?
Not to be confused with the less serious common cold, the flu (also known as influenza) is a highly contagious respiratory illness.
Symptoms often include:
- fever and chills
- cough, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose
- muscle aches, joint pains, headaches and fatigue (feeling very tired)
- nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea (more common in children than adults
Most symptoms can be managed by resting, staying hydrated, and managing pain with paracetamol and ibuprofen, in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines. In some cases, it can cause pneumonia, breathing difficulties, and, in rare circumstances, death.
If you experience shortness of breath or rapid breathing, concerning chest pain or pressure, confusion, sudden dizziness, persistent vomiting, or are significantly concerned, call Triple Zero. If you're unwell but not experiencing these severe symptoms, it’s still important to seek advice early from your GP — particularly if you’re at higher risk, such as children over 6 months and under 5 years, being pregnant, over 65, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, or have a chronic health condition. Early medical care can prevent complications and support a faster recovery.
How can the public help slow the spread?
According to Dr Shannon Nott, the RFDSSE’s Chief Medical Officer, both good hand hygiene as well as flu vaccinations are our best line of defence.
Dr Nott said, “Getting your flu vaccine is the best way you can protect not just yourself, but your loved ones, colleagues, neighbours – anyone who you come into close contact with. The flu virus strain is constantly changing, so the flu shot you had last year won’t necessarily protect you from future strains. This is why we encourage everyone to get annual vaccinations, ideally at the start of the flu season, to stay protected.”
The RFDSSE routinely offers flu vaccinations to patients in their service areas. Patients can find out when they're able to book their flu vaccine by contacting their nearest clinic. In line with the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program, all eligible Australians can access a free flu vaccination. All other patients can get a flu vaccination for a small fee.
Who is eligible for a free flu vaccine in Australia?
- Children aged 6 months to less than 5 years of age
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- People aged 65 years or over
- People aged 6 months and over with medical risk conditions that put them at an increased risk of severe influenza
The flu vaccine is a powerful defence before you contract the virus, helping to prevent infection or reduce the severity of illness. However, if you’ve already caught the flu, getting vaccinated won’t help with your current infection.
To help limit the spread of this highly contagious illness, avoid close contact with others, wear a mask, and wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
If you’re an RFDSSE patient, contact your local clinic to find out how to get your flu vaccine.
Please note that all information is correct at the time of publication, 24 April 2025.
