Public Health Advisory: Preventing Respiratory Illness and 2026 Flu Vaccination Guidance

Health officials in Australia are providing guidance on preventing respiratory illnesses and administering influenza vaccinations for 2026, as cases of flu and other viruses are reported across the country.

Northern Queensland: Current Respiratory Virus Activity

Residents in Cape York, Torres Strait, and the Northern Peninsula Area are advised to take protective measures against circulating respiratory infections.

Dr. Helen Pedgrift of the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service identified influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 as currently active in the region.

A spike in influenza cases has been noted in some communities, such as Weipa, which has reported 90 flu cases this year to date, compared to 15 in the same period last year.
Health authorities recommend standard hygiene practices to prevent spread, including regular hand washing, covering coughs, and staying home when sick.
Individuals, especially those in high-risk groups, are advised to seek medical care if symptoms worsen.

2026 National Influenza Vaccination Guidelines

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has released its vaccination advice for the 2026 influenza season.

Annual vaccination is recommended when vaccines become available, typically from April. Vaccination should continue as long as influenza viruses are circulating.
For adults aged 65 and over, the National Immunisation Program (NIP) equally recommends the funded adjuvanted vaccine (Fluad) and the private market high-dose vaccine (Fluzone High-Dose) over standard vaccines.
The cell-based vaccine Flucelvax is NIP-funded for individuals aged 5–64 with specific medical risk conditions. There is no preferential recommendation between it and standard egg-based vaccines.
Influenza vaccines can be co-administered with other vaccines.

Vaccine Availability and Rollout

Vaccine manufacturer CSL Seqirus has confirmed that private market vaccines are now available for clinics and pharmacies.

The new seasonal influenza vaccine is scheduled to become available progressively from March 1 in Queensland, where all residents are eligible for a free dose.
A needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine will be offered for children aged two to five years in Queensland and through state-based programs in New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Vaccines are accessible at general practitioners, pharmacies, primary health centers, and some hospital services.

Current Influenza Activity and Professional Roles

Influenza activity has been reported across Australia.

Nationally, nearly 19,000 influenza cases have been reported in 2026 to date. This follows 2025, which recorded over 502,000 laboratory-confirmed cases, described as the highest number in over 25 years.
Health authorities emphasize the role of healthcare professionals in vaccine uptake. Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd, has highlighted the influence of GP recommendations.
Pharmacists are also noted for their involvement in vaccination campaigns, having administered 2.6 million flu vaccines in 2025. A 2025 systematic review indicated that pharmacist-led vaccinations increased uptake.

At-Risk Populations and Symptoms

Health advice identifies several groups at higher risk of severe illness from respiratory infections, including young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. RSV is noted as a particular risk for infants.

Common symptoms of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV can include runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat, and headache. In infants, RSV may also cause irritability, tiredness, or labored breathing.