Australians aged 50 and over are being urged to review their flu vaccination options as cases rise sharply nationwide and eligibility expands for an enhanced vaccine.
New data shows a 168% spike in reported influenza cases nationally between February 12 and March 13 this year, rising from 8,060 to 21,574. Among Australians over 50, cases jumped 147% in the same period, from 2,845 to 7,027.
Health experts say the increase comes as early 2026 surveillance indicates influenza activity has already begun across parts of the country, following a record-breaking 2025 season that saw more than 502,000 laboratory-confirmed cases.
At the same time, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the adjuvanted influenza vaccine Fluad for Australians aged 50 and over, expanding access beyond its previous use in those aged 65 and above under the National Immunisation Program.
Fluad has been funded for Australians aged 65 and over since 2018, with millions receiving the vaccine annually. The expanded approval reflects growing evidence that people from mid-life may face increased risks from influenza.
Since January this year, more than 2,630 flu cases have been recorded nationally among people aged 50 to 64. In 2025, more than 27% of all flu cases occurred in adults aged 50 and over, including 12% in those aged 50 to 64. Despite this, only about one-third of people in that age group were vaccinated last year.
Each year in Australia, influenza is estimated to cause more than 13,500 hospitalisations and over 3,000 deaths among adults aged 50 and over.
Public Health Physician and GP Professor Paul Van Buynder said the risks associated with influenza increase from mid-life.
“If you’re over 50, your immune system has changed – even if your lifestyle hasn’t,” Professor Buynder said.
“Catching flu could mean hospitalisation or worse and that’s why it’s so important to think about the flu season ahead and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your personal risk and the flu vaccine option that’s right for you.”
Research indicates that immune system function can decline with age, while chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness can further increase the likelihood of severe outcomes from influenza. At the same time, vaccine responses may be less effective in older adults.
Patients Australia’s Dr Nick Coatsworth said many people in their 50s underestimate the impact of influenza.
“There’s really no such thing as ‘just the flu.’ It’s a disease that can really knock you around – even a mild case can be a week or two of feeling really unwell and missing work and time with family and friends.
“We can see from the data that people in their 50s just aren’t aware of their risk when it comes to flu. Only about one in three Australians aged 50–64 received a flu vaccine last year, compared with almost two thirds of people 65 and over.”
Pharmacies and health providers have begun rolling out vaccinations ahead of the winter peak, with protection taking up to two weeks to become effective. Health authorities recommend annual vaccination due to changing influenza strains each year.
TerryWhite Chemmart Deputy Chief Pharmacist, Kate Gunthorpe, said last year’s season demonstrated the potential impact of influenza.
“Last year showed just how significant and widespread influenza can be and 2026 is shaping up to be just as bad,” Gunthorpe said.
“More than half a million confirmed cases placed real pressure on families and the healthcare system. Vaccination remains the simplest and most effective way to reduce your risk – and it’s available right now through your local pharmacy.”
Influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and over, with free vaccines available under the National Immunisation Program for higher-risk groups, including young children, pregnant women, people aged 65 and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and those with certain medical conditions.
CSL Seqirus Vaccines Medical Director, Dr Jules Bayliss, said expanding access to Fluad was a positive step.
“We welcome the news that more Australians will be able to access Fluad if they choose,” Dr Bayliss commented.
“As an Australian company, our mission is to reduce the potentially devastating impact of flu on families, communities and our health system. Today’s announcement is another important step towards this vision.”
Health experts are advising Australians, particularly those aged 50 and over, to consult their GP or pharmacist about vaccination options as the 2026 flu season approaches.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.