Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infection of the nose, throat and sometimes lungs caused by flu viruses.

It spreads very easily and quickly between people through coughing, talking, sneezing and contact with contaminated hands, tissues and other infected items.

The flu can cause serious illness and complications for anyone, but some groups of people are at even higher risk of serious flu infection, complications and hospitalisation.

Find out if you can get the flu vaccine for free as part of the Influenza Immunisation Program 2023.

Vaccination every year is the best way to protect yourself against the flu.