Influenza cases expected to peak in coming weeks: QLD GPs and immunisation providers are urged to encourage eligible patients to get the free flu vaccine
Local vaccine providers have reported a decrease in influenza (flu) vaccinations this year, particularly in patients aged 15 to 64 years. With flu vaccines currently free for all Queensland residents, the low uptake of the vaccine could potentially be attributed to 'vaccine fatigue'. As such, primary health care providers are best placed to remind their patients about getting the free flu vaccination.
About the 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program
The 2024 Free Flu Vaccination Program is currently running and will finish on Monday 30 September 2024.
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The Program is available to Queensland residents only, including residents without a Medicare card.
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The Program will reimburse immunisation service providers for privately purchased vaccines administered to Queenslanders not eligible under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
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General Practitioners do not have to change the way they currently bill for influenza vaccination consultation as a function of this program.
Support for your practice
Please remember to ask your eligible patients if they have had their flu vaccination. Fact sheets for your patients are available in easy-to-read English and several other languages to help aid the conversation.
Our General Practice Quality Improvement team can support your practice to identify eligible patients and establish goals for increasing your vaccination rates. Contact the Quality Improvement team via support@bsphn.org.au or phone (07) 3864 7540.
More information
View the acute respiratory infection surveillance reports from Queensland Health: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/diseases-infection/surveillance/reports/flu