If you are planning your family’s winter health check, you may be asking: can I have the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?The short answer is yes. In Australia, it is safe to have your flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine on the same day. That can make life easier for you, especially when you are busy with work, school, sport, and family plans.
Why having both vaccines together can help
Getting your flu and COVID-19 vaccine in one visit can save you time. Instead of making two bookings, you may be able to sort both in one appointment. That means less running around and one more thing ticked off your list.
It can also help you stay on track with protection before winter. Flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses, and both can spread through families and the community. If you have children, older relatives, or a packed calendar, a single visit can feel much more manageable.
Is it safe to have both on the same day?
Yes. The Australian Immunisation Handbook says COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including the flu vaccine.
You might still get common, mild side effects after vaccination, such as a sore arm, feeling tired, or a headache. These are normal for some people. If you are unsure what is right for you or a family member, speak with a nearby community pharmacist.
Where can you get them together?
A community pharmacy can be a simple and convenient place to get vaccinated. Some community pharmacies can offer flu and COVID vaccines together, which can make it easier to protect yourself in one visit. You can check participating locations and book here: https://findapharmacy.com.au/our-services/flu-covid.
If you have been searching for the flu and COVID-19 vaccine near you, a local community pharmacy may be one of the fastest ways to find an option close to home, work, or school.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine still free in Australia?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines are free in Australia under the National COVID-19 Vaccine Program.
Additionally, the following groups of people may be eligible for free flu vaccination as well under the National Immunisation Program:
- children
- older people
- First Nations people
- pregnant women
- people with pre-existing health conditions
Your pharmacist can advise you if you are eligible.
COVID-19 vaccine booster dose recommendations
Without severe immunocompromise
- Less than 5 years: Not recommended
- 5 to 17 years: Not recommended
- 18 to 64 years: Consider a dose every 12 months
- 65 to 74 years: Recommended every 12 months and can consider a dose every 6 months
- 75 years and older: Recommended every 6 months
With severe immunocompromise
- Less than 5 years: Not recommended
- 5 to 17 years: Consider a dose every 12 months
- 18 to 64 years: Recommended every 12 months and can consider a dose every 6 months
- 65 to 74 years: Recommended every 12 months and can consider a dose every 6 months
- 75 years and older: Recommended every 6 months
When should you book?
The best time to book is before winter illness starts spreading widely in your local area. If your family calendar fills up quickly, booking early can help you get your preferred time and location.
A quick appointment now may help you avoid bigger disruptions later. If you can get both vaccines in one visit, that is one less job on your to-do list.
A simple way to protect your family
If you want an easy step to support your family’s health this season, booking your flu and COVID-19 vaccine together can be a smart choice. It is safe, convenient, and the COVID-19 vaccine is still free in Australia.
You can explore local options and make a booking through a participating community pharmacy.
References:
- Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care, The Australian Immunisation Handbook – COVID-19
https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/covid-19 - Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care, COVID-19 vaccine advice and recommendations https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/covid-19-vaccines/getting-your-vaccination
