Flu Vaccines for the Elderly: What to Know Before Your Appointment

Older adults are more likely to experience severe flu complications, including pneumonia or hospitalisation, due to a naturally weaker immune system.

For this reason, people aged 65 and over are often recommended a high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine, which offers stronger protection than regular flu shots. These vaccines are safe, effective, and tailored to better generate the immune response in older adults.

You can discuss your options with your GP and easily access the recommended vaccine through Myhealth.

Learn more about flu prevention in Everything You Need to Know About the Flu.

Why the Flu Vaccine Matters for Older Adults

As we age, our immune system naturally weakens, making it harder to fight infections like the flu. This means older adults are at higher risk of complications, including pneumonia, heart problems, or hospitalisation. The flu vaccine helps strengthen the body’s defence, reducing the chance of severe illness and serious complications. Even if you do catch the flu, vaccination can make symptoms milder and recovery faster. Staying up to date with your annual flu shot is one of the most effective ways to protect your health.

Learn more about recognising flu in Flu Symptoms.

What Type of Flu Vaccine Is Given to People Aged 65+?

How It Differs from a Regular Flu Shot

For adults aged 65 and over, the flu vaccine is specially formulated to produce a stronger immune response. These enhanced formulations are recommended by Australian health authorities to reduce the risk of severe flu, complications, and hospitalisation.

The most frequently administered senior flu vaccine is an adjuvanted flu vaccine called Fluad Quad®. The ‘adjuvant’ in the formulation helps the body respond to the vaccine in order to boost your immune protection against the flu in seniors.

Is It Part of the National Immunisation Program?

Yes, the senior flu adjuvanted vaccine called Fluad Quad® is available free under the Australian National Immunisation Program (NIP) for people aged 65 and over who hold a valid Medicare card. You can receive it at your GP clinic, including Myhealth clinics, making it easy and convenient to access. Medicare may also cover the cost of the consultation when you get vaccinated. This ensures older adults can protect themselves against serious flu complications without added financial burden.

Staying up to date with your annual shot is strongly recommended!

Is the Flu Vaccine Safe for Seniors?

General Safety and Monitoring

Flu vaccines for older adults are thoroughly tested to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Australian health authorities review and update vaccines each year to match the current flu strains. Getting your vaccine at a trusted Myhealth GP clinic is safe, with trained staff available to monitor for any immediate reactions.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways for seniors to prevent serious flu complications, and ongoing monitoring ensures any rare issues are quickly addressed.

Common Side Effects in Older Adults

Mild side effects may include discomfort at the injection site, temporary fatigue, or a mild fever. These reactions are short-lived and generally not serious. Importantly, the flu shot cannot give you the flu. If any symptoms persist or feel unusual, it’s best to speak with your GP.

Most seniors recover quickly and gain strong protection against the flu.

How Effective Are Flu Vaccines for the Elderly?

What the Research Shows

Even though older adults may have a weaker immune response, research shows that flu vaccines still significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and death. Vaccination helps the body respond faster if infection occurs, making symptoms milder and recovery quicker. Even partial protection can make a major difference, helping seniors stay healthier through flu season and lowering the chance of complications that could lead to hospital visits.

Why Annual Vaccination Still Matters

Flu strains change every year, so receiving the vaccine annually is essential. Each year, vaccines are updated to target the most common circulating strains, giving seniors the best possible protection. Consistent vaccination helps maintain immunity and reduces the likelihood of serious illness. Staying up to date is one of the easiest ways to protect your health and those around you.

Learn more about local vaccination options at Flu Vaccination Services.

Book a Flu Shot at Your Nearest Myhealth Clinic

Seniors and their carers are encouraged to schedule a flu vaccination early, before flu season peaks. At a GP-led Myhealth clinic, you’ll receive professional care, personalised guidance, and careful monitoring to ensure your vaccination is safe and effective.

Getting your annual flu shot is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from serious flu complications. Stay healthy this season by booking your flu vaccine at a Myhealth clinic today.

Book your flu vaccine at a Myhealth clinic near you!