Nearly 22,088 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases have been reported in Australia since the beginning of 2026.
The 2026 seasonal influenza vaccine is being rolled out across Australia, with health authorities in multiple states and territories urging the population to get vaccinated. The campaign follows a high number of reported influenza cases in 2025—over 502,000 confirmed cases, the highest total in over 25 years—and a significant number of infections already recorded in 2026.
National Influenza Situation
National surveillance data indicates that influenza activity has commenced in some regions. Since the start of 2026, nearly 22,088 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported nationwide.
State and Territory Data
Northern Territory
Since the start of 2026, the Northern Territory has recorded 531 confirmed influenza cases and 166 hospitalizations. Cases have been concentrated in the Top End, Katherine, and East Arnhem regions. Historical reporting shows:
- 2025: 5,487 cases and 1,367 hospitalizations
- 2024: 3,302 cases
- 2023: 2,869 cases
Queensland (Cape York and Torres Strait)
Local health authorities report influenza spikes in communities including Weipa. As of the reporting period, 90 influenza cases had been documented in the region in 2026, compared to just 15 cases in the same period of the previous year.
Vaccine Availability and Access
The 2026 influenza vaccine is now available through general practitioners, pharmacies, health clinics, and remote health services. Private market vaccines are available for clinics and pharmacies. The vaccine will also be accessible at primary health centers in the Torres Strait, Cape York, and Northern Peninsula Area.
Free Vaccination Eligibility
Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), free influenza vaccination is available for:
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- Individuals aged 6 months and over with medical conditions that increase risk of severe influenza
Residents not eligible for free vaccination can access the vaccine through general practitioners, health clinics, and participating pharmacies. Many workplaces also offer influenza vaccines to employees at no cost.
Vaccination Recommendations
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends annual influenza vaccination when vaccines become available in April 2026. Individuals vaccinated in late 2025 or early 2026 are advised to receive the 2026 formulation. Vaccination should continue as long as influenza viruses are circulating and valid vaccines are available.
For adults aged 65 years and over, ATAGI equally recommends the adjuvanted vaccine (Fluad) and the high-dose influenza vaccine (Fluzone High-Dose) over standard influenza vaccines. The cell-based vaccine Flucelvax is NIP-funded for individuals aged 5–64 years with medical conditions increasing risk of influenza complications. Influenza vaccines can be co-administered with other vaccines.
New Vaccine Formulations
A needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine will be available for children aged two to five years. This marks the first introduction of needle-free flu vaccines for children in Australia, available through state-based immunization programs in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Respiratory Infections in Circulation
Public health officials report that multiple respiratory viruses are currently circulating, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. RSV poses a particular risk to infants and young children.
Symptoms and Prevention
Common symptoms of influenza include:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Loss of appetite
In infants, RSV symptoms may include irritability, tiredness, refusal to feed, weight loss, or labored breathing.
Prevention recommendations include:
- Staying home when sick
- Regular hand washing and sanitizing
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Disposing of tissues immediately
- Maintaining distance from others when ill
Care Guidance
Individuals with influenza symptoms are advised to stay home from work or school until symptoms resolve, typically five to seven days, or at least 24 hours after fever subsides. Symptom management includes rest, adequate fluid intake, and fever-reducing medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Medical attention should be sought if symptoms worsen, including fast or difficult breathing, chest pains, increased sleepiness, or a general decline in condition. Early care is recommended, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions, as antiviral treatments are most effective when started within the first few days of symptom onset.
For health advice, individuals can contact their general practitioner, pharmacy, or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222.