Hawkesbury residents aged 65 and over are being urged to book their winter vaccinations, with Australia's Chief Medical Officer reminding older Australians that it is not too late to protect themselves against influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The reminder comes as health authorities also monitor the detection of a highly infectious strain of avian influenza (bird flu) in some bird species in Australia.
While the outbreak has raised concerns for native wildlife and the poultry industry, Australian health officials have assessed the current risk to the general public as low, noting that person-to-person transmission of bird flu is extremely rare.
Australia's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd AO, said winter vaccinations remain one of the best ways to reduce the risk of serious illness.
"Vaccinations save lives and are important for older Australians in order to help keep people well and to prevent serious illness related to common respiratory illnesses," Professor Kidd said.
Free vaccines available
People aged 65 years and over are eligible for a free influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
The program also provides:
- Free influenza vaccines for everyone aged 65 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and older.
- Free RSV vaccinations for people aged 75 years and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over.
- Free COVID-19 vaccinations for all adults in Australia, regardless of Medicare or visa status.
Health experts say older Australians face a significantly higher risk of severe illness, complications and hospitalisation from influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.
It's not too late
Although the ideal time to receive winter vaccinations is before the peak respiratory virus season, health authorities stress that vaccination continues to provide valuable protection throughout winter.
The peak season for influenza and other respiratory viruses generally runs from June through September.
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended because circulating flu strains change each year, requiring an updated vaccine.
Current recommendations are:
- COVID-19 booster every 12 months for people aged 65 to 74.
- COVID-19 booster every six months for people aged 75 years and over.
- A single RSV vaccination, which is expected to provide protection for at least two years.
Doctors advise that influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines can all be safely administered during the same appointment, reducing the need for multiple visits.
Bird flu risk remains low
Health authorities have also reassured Australians following the recent detection of bird flu in wild birds.
To date, Australia has recorded only one human case, involving a traveller infected overseas in 2024. That person recovered after hospital treatment, and no further spread occurred.
Officials continue to monitor the current outbreak closely while working to protect Australia's poultry industry and native bird populations.
Where to get vaccinated
Hawkesbury residents can receive free winter vaccinations through a range of local providers, including:
- General practitioners (GPs)
- Participating pharmacies
- Medicare Urgent Care Centre 2 Kable Street, Windsor, NSW 2756 (approx. a 10-minute drive from Richmond).Windsor
Residents are encouraged to speak with their GP or pharmacist about which vaccines are recommended for their age and medical circumstances.
Health authorities emphasise that staying up to date with vaccinations remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious illness during the winter months.
Health Reminder: Always seek advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional about which vaccinations are appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Acknowledgement: Information from this article is sourced by National Senior Australia Newsletter
