Translate
The cooler months bring colds, flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), COVID-19 and other illnesses. That’s why being prepared is the best way to protect yourself and your family from severe illnesses caused by acute respiratory infections.
Prepare, plan and protect
Prepare:
Be prepared by being up to date with your seasonal vaccinations, as this remains the best defence against serious illness from COVID-19, influenza (flu) and RSV.
Everyone aged six months and older is recommended to receive an annual flu vaccine - this is particularly important for certain groups at higher risk of serious illness from flu.
All adults are eligible for a COVID-19 booster at least every 12 months, and older adults or those with severe immunocompromise every six months. A vaccine is also now available and recommended for older individuals to protect against severe illness from RSV.
You can get your flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines in the same appointment.
Your annual flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are available from your GP and most local pharmacies. Contact your GP or local pharmacy to make an appointment or book an appointment online using healthdirect’s Service Finder.
Plan:
Antiviral medication is recommended for some people who test positive to COVID-19 or flu. You need to begin taking antivirals as soon as you can after your symptoms start.
If you’re at higher risk of becoming very sick from COVID-19 or the flu, before you get sick, make a plan with your healthcare provider for how you will access testing, and how you will access antiviral medication if you test positive.
Protect:
Protect yourself and others by remembering to stay home if you’re unwell, regularly wash your hands, and cover your coughs and sneezes.
More information
- View more information about acute respiratory infections, including the current level of activity in the community.
- View a summary of the current level of activity and trends of influenza-like illness, COVID-19, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
- Visit healthdirect for free health information and advice, online symptom checker, and service finder.
Below are some links to more information to help you Prepare, Plan and Protect.
