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📅 Flu Season - Book Now

Flu Vaccinations at Chemistworks

Protect yourself and your family this flu season. We offer multiple vaccine options to suit every age and every need, administered by our qualified pharmacists.

Book Your Flu Vaccination Find The Right Vaccine For You
Woman who has received a vaccination
💊 No referral needed 🕐 Book online 👪 Family vaccinations 🎉 Needle-free option available ✅ Free for eligible people 🏥 Qualified pharmacists
Our services

Flu Vaccine Options Available at Chemistworks

We offer a range of flu vaccines to suit different ages, preferences, and medical needs. Our pharmacists can help you identify the most appropriate option for you.

Traditional Vaccine

Influvac

Traditional Egg-Based Vaccine

Influvac is the time-tested, egg-based influenza vaccine that has been used reliably for decades. It remains one of the most widely administered flu vaccines in Australia and is suitable for most adults and children from 6 months of age.

  • Egg-based manufacturing process
  • Reliable and widely used option
  • Suitable from 6 months of age
  • Available under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for eligible patients
Egg-Free

Flucelvax Quad

Cell-Based Manufacturing

Flucelvax uses innovative cell-based manufacturing technology, avoiding the egg adaptation step used in traditional vaccines. This offers an alternative production method for patients who prefer to avoid egg-based processes or who want a modern vaccine option.

  • Cell-based, not egg-adapted
  • Alternative for patients who prefer egg-free production
  • Covers 4 influenza strains
  • Suitable from 6 months of age
Needle-Free

FluMist

Intranasal- No Needle Required

FluMist is administered as a spray into each nostril, with no injection required. It's a fantastic option for children and anyone who prefers to avoid needles. NSW eligible children aged 2 - 5 may qualify for funded access.

  • Needle-free nasal spray delivery
  • Approved for ages 2–17 years
  • Funded access for eligible NSW children aged 2 - <5
  • Ideal for children anxious about needles
Not sure which vaccine is right for you? Use our quick Vaccine Finder below or speak with one of our friendly Chemistworks pharmacists. We'll help you make the right choice based on your age, health history, and personal preferences.
Why it matters

The Flu Vaccine: Your Best Protection Against Influenza

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects thousands of Australians every year. While most people recover at home within a week or two, the flu can lead to serious complications, including hospitalisation and pneumonia, particularly for young children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions.

The flu vaccine is the single most effective way to reduce your risk of getting sick. Annual vaccination is recommended because flu viruses evolve each year, and the vaccines are updated each season to match the strains most likely to circulate. At Chemistworks, we make it easy to stay protected with no GP visit required.

Woman blowing her nose while sitting on a couch
Signs & Symptoms

Common Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms come on suddenly and tend to be more severe than a common cold. If you or a family member is experiencing any of the following, you can ask advice from your local pharmacist.

Fever & Chills

Sudden high temperature with chills or sweats

Cough & Sore Throat

Persistent cough and throat irritation

Body Aches

Muscle aches, joint pain and headaches

Fatigue

Extreme tiredness and feeling run down

Runny or Stuffy Nose

Nasal congestion or discharge

Nausea & Vomiting

More common in children than adults

Seek medical attention promptly if you experience: difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent vomiting, or symptoms that worsen after initial improvement. These may indicate serious complications of influenza.
Priority groups

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The Australian Government recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and over. It is especially important for those at higher risk of serious illness.

Young Children (6 months – 4 years)

Young children are particularly vulnerable to severe flu. Eligible NSW children aged 2 - <5 may qualify for a funded FluMist nasal spray vaccine.

Pregnant Women

Vaccination during pregnancy protects both mum and newborn, who are too young to be vaccinated themselves.

Adults 65+

Older adults face higher risks of flu-related hospitalisation and complications. Free vaccination is available under the National Immunisation Program.

Chronic Health Conditions

People with heart disease, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems are at greater risk from flu and its complications.

Healthcare Workers

Vaccination protects both healthcare workers and the vulnerable patients they care for.

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander People

Annual flu vaccination is strongly recommended and free under the National Immunisation Program.

Free Flu Vaccination – National Immunisation Program (NIP)

The following groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the Australian Government's National Immunisation Program:

  • Adults aged 65 years and over
  • Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
  • People aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase flu complications
  • Children aged 6 months to <5 years (under the Children's Flu Program in participating states)

Ask our pharmacists about your eligibility at your next visit or booking.

Interactive tool

Find the Right Flu Vaccine for You

Answer a few quick questions and we'll suggest the most suitable vaccine option for your needs. This is a guide only and our pharmacists will confirm the best choice at your consultation.

Question 1 of 4
What is the age of the person being vaccinated?
Under 2 years
2 – 4 years
5 – 17 years
18 – 64 years
65 years or older
Question 2 of 4
Do you have an egg allergy or prefer to avoid egg-based products?
Yes, I have an egg allergy
I prefer to avoid egg-based vaccines
No, I have no egg-related concerns
Question 3 of 4
Do you (or your child) have a preference for a needle-free vaccine?
Yes, I prefer no needles
No preference
Question 4 of 4
Is this child an eligible NSW resident aged 2–4 years?
Yes, NSW child aged 2–4
No / Not applicable

Our Suggested Vaccine For You

Influvac (Egg-Based)

Based on your answers, Influvac is a reliable and widely used option that suits your needs.

Please note that this is a guide only. Our pharmacists will confirm the most appropriate vaccine at your consultation and check your eligibility for any funded options.
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Protect your whole family

Family Flu Vaccinations

The flu spreads quickly through households. Vaccinating the whole family is the best way to create a protective barrier and reduce the risk of anyone getting seriously ill this season.

Happy and healthy family outdoors
  • Babies & Toddlers (6 months – <2 years) Eligible for the injectable flu vaccine from 6 months. Children under 9 receiving the flu vaccine for the first time require two doses, 4 weeks apart.
  • Children 2–4 years NIP Funded (NSW) Eligible for the FluMist nasal spray. Needle-free and funded for eligible NSW children aged 2 - <5. Injectable options also available.
  • Children & Teens 5–17 years Both injectable (Influvac or Flucelvax) and nasal spray (FluMist) options are available. A great choice for children who prefer needle-free vaccination.
  • Adults 18–64 years Choose from Influvac (egg-based) or Flucelvax (cell-based). Our pharmacists will recommend the best fit for your health profile.
  • Adults 65+ NIP Funded Free vaccination under the National Immunisation Program. Older adults may be recommended an enhanced-dose vaccine for stronger protection.
Book for the Whole Family
Our process

How Chemistworks Makes Vaccination Easy

Getting vaccinated at Chemistworks is quick, convenient, and straightforward. Here's what to expect when you book with us:

1

Book Online or Walk In

Book your appointment online at your convenience, or simply walk into your nearest Chemistworks pharmacy. No GP referral required.

2

Pharmacist Consultation

Our qualified pharmacists will take a brief health history, confirm your eligibility for funded options, and recommend the most appropriate vaccine for you and your family.

3

Receive Your Vaccination

Your vaccine is administered in a comfortable, private area by a trained immunising pharmacist. The process takes just a few minutes.

4

Post-Vaccination Monitoring

We'll ask you to wait briefly after your vaccination to ensure you're feeling well. Our pharmacists are happy to answer any questions about side effects or aftercare.

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Protect Yourself and Your Family This Flu Season

Our qualified pharmacists are ready to help you find the right flu vaccine, with options for every age. Book your appointment today or walk into your nearest Chemistworks.

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Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Annual flu vaccination is recommended from April onwards, before flu season peaks between June and September. However, it is never too late to get vaccinated as getting your flu shot later in the season still provides meaningful protection. Protection typically peaks around 3–4 months after vaccination.
No. The injectable flu vaccines used in Australia (Influvac and Flucelvax) do not contain live virus and cannot cause influenza. Some people experience mild side effects in the 1–2 days following vaccination, such as a sore arm, mild fatigue, or a low-grade temperature. These are normal signs that your immune system is responding and will pass quickly.
Both are quadrivalent injectable flu vaccines that protect against four strains of influenza. The key difference is in how they are manufactured. Influvac uses a traditional egg-based process, while Flucelvax is produced using cell-based technology, which avoids the egg adaptation step. Flucelvax is a suitable alternative for patients who prefer to avoid egg-based vaccine production methods. Both are considered safe and effective options for eligible patients.
FluMist is a live attenuated influenza vaccine delivered as a nasal spray meaning no needle is required. It is approved for use in people aged 2–17 years and is an excellent option for children who are anxious about injections. In NSW, eligible children aged 2 - <5 years may access FluMist at no cost under the government-funded program. Please speak to our pharmacists to confirm your child's eligibility.
Certain eligible groups under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) may be able to access their flu vaccination at no cost. Free flu vaccination is available for adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over, and those with certain medical conditions. In NSW, children aged 2 - <5 may also be eligible for funded FluMist. For all others, a consultation fee may apply. Please contact your local Chemistworks for current pricing.
Bookings are recommended but not always required. Booking online in advance helps you secure a convenient time and reduces any waiting.
Yes. The flu vaccine can generally be given at the same time as other vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines. Our pharmacists will review your vaccination history and confirm co-administration is appropriate for your specific situation.
Yes, it is possible. The flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of getting influenza, but it does not guarantee complete protection. This is because flu viruses evolve rapidly, and if you are exposed to a strain not covered by the current season's vaccine, you may still get sick. However, vaccinated people who do contract the flu typically experience milder symptoms and are less likely to be hospitalised.
Most children with egg allergies can safely receive flu vaccines. Children aged 2–17 years may be particularly well suited to FluMist (nasal spray) or Flucelvax (cell-based), both of which avoid the traditional egg-based manufacturing process. Please inform our pharmacists of any known allergies during your consultation and they will help identify the safest option.
Flu vaccines are generally very well tolerated. Common side effects from the injectable vaccines include soreness or redness at the injection site, mild fatigue, headache, or a low-grade fever. These side effects usually resolve within 1–2 days. FluMist (nasal spray) may cause mild nasal congestion or a runny nose in the day or two following vaccination. Serious reactions are rare. Our pharmacists will ask you to wait briefly after vaccination to monitor for any immediate reactions.