Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against serious disease caused by influenza, and the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. Flu vaccine can be given anytime.
As we prepare to enter the 2026 influenza (flu) season, immunisation providers should ensure that they are prepared for the upcoming season and that they will have access to vaccine supply.
Influenza vaccine pre-allocated orders can now be reviewed. Pre-allocations will close at 5 PM on Tuesday 3rd of March 2026. Deliveries are expected to commence in early April, pending receipt of vaccine stock into the State Vaccine Centre from vaccine suppliers.
Failure to submit pre-allocation confirmation will delay access to influenza vaccines until the pre-allocation process is complete.
Due to limits on vaccines available there is NO opportunity to increase 2026 pre-allocations, but you will be able to routinely order influenza vaccine after you have received your pre-allocated order.
A full checklist and timeline of upcoming steps related to the 2026 influenza season is available here.
In 2026, NSW Health is offering nasal spray influenza vaccine for children aged 2 to less than 5 years. Due to supply constraints, community pharmacies have not been pre-allocated nasal spray influenza vaccine. NSW Health is liaising with the Pharmacy Guild regarding use of private stock of nasal spray influenza vaccine in community pharmacies, and a process for reimbursement. Additional information will be provided soon.
INFLUENZA ANTIVIRAL TREATMENT /POST EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS
You can find the NSW public health advice on influenza antiviral treatment here.
For clinical advice, refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook Influenza (flu) chapter.
