Free flu shot available to more vulnerable people in NSW

People considered at higher risk of influenza, such as those who are pregnant, aged over 65 or under 5, or Indigenous, can now book in for a free flu shot.

NSW Health says that people are more vulnerable to influenza because of lower exposure to the virus over the past two years, together with increased social mixing and the reopening of international borders more recently.

"Everyone six months and older is recommended to get a flu jab but particularly those high risk groups, as the virus is extremely contagious and potentially deadly," Health Protection NSW executive director Dr Richard Broome said.

"If you live in an aged or disability care facility, are aged over 65 or are immunocompromised, now is the time to book in."

People aged 65 and over should have the enhanced quadrivalent vaccine, which stimulates a greater immune response.

IN OTHER NEWS:

For the first time, people in this age group can get the flu vaccine free at pharmacies.

The vaccine is free for children aged six months to under five years; Aboriginal people; pregnant women; people aged 65 years and over; and others at higher risk of severe illness, such as those with diabetes, serious heart, lung, kidney or liver disease, immunosuppression and obesity.

NSW's latest weekly COVID report shows cases of the flu are below the seasonal average, as are other respiratory viral infections.

The exceptions are rhinovirus - which causes the common cold - and enterovirus, which have risen above the seasonal average in recent weeks.