Flu vaccinations
Say ‘Boo’ to the flu!
The flu isn’t like the common cold; it’s highly contagious and can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications. Symptoms of flu can hit very quickly and may last for several weeks.
In 2019, seasonal influenza (flu) vaccines are being funded by the Australian and Victorian governments for some eligible members of the community.
If you are eligible, you can get the free flu vaccine through our immunisation program. The vaccine is available while stocks last.
People who are eligible for a free flu vaccine
These people can get the free flu vaccine through Council or a GP:
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years (please note: children in this age group who get a flu vaccination for the first time need 2 doses of vaccine, spaced by a minimum of 4 weeks)
- Pregnant women
- People aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and over
- People with chronic medical conditions
Our free immunisation sessions
You do not need to book immunisation sessions.
| Venue | May | June | July | August | September |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nar Nar Goon Public Hall Spencer St, Nar Nar Goon 10am to 11am |
Thurs 2 | Thurs 6 | Thurs 4 | Thurs 1 | Thurs 5 |
| Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre 8 O’Neil Rd, Beaconsfield 10am to 11am |
Wed 8 | Wed 12 | Wed 10 | Wed 14 | Wed 11 |
| Cardinia Cultural Centre Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham 1pm to 2pm |
Wed 8 (1-2pm) PLUS Thu 23 (9:30-11:30am) |
Wed 12 | Wed 10 | Wed 14 | |
|
Wed 11 |
|||||
| Pakenham Public Hall John St, Pakenham 9.30am to 11.30 am |
No session | Thurs 27 | Thurs 25 | Thurs 22 | Thurs 26 |
| Gemco Players Comm Theatre 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald 9.30am to 10.30am |
Wed 15 | Wed 19 | Wed 17 | Wed 21 | Wed 18 |
| Gembrook Community Centre Gembrook Rd, Gembrook 11.30am to 12.30pm |
Wed 15 | Wed 19 | Wed 17 | Wed 21 | Wed 18 |
| Cardinia Cultural Centre Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham 5.30pm to 7.30pm |
Tues 21 | Tues 18 | Tues 16 | Tues 20 | Tues 17 |
| Pakenham Public Hall John St, Pakenham 5.30pm to 7.30pm |
Tues 14 | Tues 11 | Tues 9 | Tues 13 | Tues 10 |
| Toomah Community Centre Golden Green St, Pakenham 5.30pm to 7.30pm |
Wed 22 | Wed 26 | Wed 24 | Wed 28 | Wed 25 |
If you are not eligible
Those outside of these eligible groups can still receive the vaccine through a GP or pharmacy at a
cost. It would be best to call in advance to check availability and/or make an appointment.
What are the most common flu symptoms?
- Sudden high temperature (38o C or more)
- A dry cough
- Sore throat and a runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Feeling extremely weak or tired
3 ways to prevent flu from spreading
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow
- Wash your hands regularly
- If you’re sick, stay home if possible
What to do if you do get the flu
The best things you can do are rest, stay at home and drink plenty of fluids. If you do need to see a GP, make sure you call ahead first.
For some people, taking antiviral medication early on can help lessen the effects of flu. Speak to your GP about whether you might need to take antiviral medication, especially if you’re in an at-risk group.
More information
Go to the Better Health website