Every winter, influenza spreads through schools, childcare centres, and family homes across Australia, making the flu vaccine an important protection tool for children and families. For most adults, the flu can mean a week of illness and disruption, but for young children, it can lead to more serious complications and a higher risk of hospitalisation.
Young children are among the highest-risk groups for influenza-related complications, including hospitalisation. The good news is that the 2026 flu vaccine is now available for children, and many families can access it for free.
If you’re wondering whether your child should get vaccinated, what to expect, and what’s new this year, this guide has everything you need.
Influenza Risk Classification in Children Under 5 (ATAGI-Defined High-Risk Group)
Children, particularly those under 5, have immune systems that are still developing. This makes them more vulnerable to serious complications from influenza compared to healthy adults.
Complications can include pneumonia, ear infections, severe dehydration, and in some cases hospitalisation. Even children who are generally healthy can experience a serious episode of flu.
Annual vaccination is one of the most practical and effective ways to reduce that risk.
ATAGI Recommendations and NIP Eligibility for Childhood Influenza Vaccination
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended by ATAGI for all children aged 6 months and over
Children aged 6 months to under 5 years are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). This applies to all children in this age group regardless of whether they have any underlying health conditions.
Children aged 5 and over who have certain medical conditions that increase their risk of complications may also be eligible for a free vaccine under the NIP. Your GP can confirm eligibility at the time of booking.
For children who do not qualify for a free vaccine, the flu vaccine is available at an out-of-pocket cost through your GP.
At The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic in Mornington, our team can check your child’s eligibility and advise on the right vaccine for their age and health status.
FluMist (Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine) Approval and Eligibility in Australia (Ages 2–18)
One of the most significant changes to the 2026 flu season is the introduction of FluMist, a needle-free nasal spray influenza vaccine, available in Australia for the first time.
FluMist is approved for children and adolescents aged 2 to under 18 years and is administered as a gentle spray into each nostril rather than an injection.
It is equally as safe and effective as the standard injectable vaccine when used in the appropriate age group. For many children who are anxious about needles, it offers a much more comfortable experience.
In Victoria, FluMist is available through the private market. Speak to our team to find out whether it is suitable for your child and what costs may apply.
FluMist is not suitable for all children. It is not recommended for children under 2, children with severe asthma or certain immune conditions, or children taking specific medications. Your GP will assess suitability before recommending it.
Paediatric Influenza Vaccination Schedule: Single-Dose vs Two-Dose Protocols
Most children only need one dose of the flu vaccine each year.
However, children receiving the flu vaccine for the first time may need two doses given four weeks apart if they are:
- Healthy children aged 6 months to under 2 years
- Children aged 6 months to under 9 years with a medical condition that increases their risk of flu complications
If your child has been vaccinated in a previous year, a single annual dose is sufficient.
When booking your child’s first flu vaccination, ask our team whether a second dose is recommended so you can schedule both appointments at the same time.
ATAGI Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Timing Recommendations (April–Winter Protection Window)
ATAGI recommends getting children vaccinated from April onwards, before the peak of flu season between June and September.
It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the immune system to build full protection. Getting in early gives your child the best coverage heading into the colder months.
The flu vaccine can also be given at the same visit as most other childhood vaccinations, making it easy to combine with scheduled immunisations.
ATAGI recommends getting children vaccinated from April onwards, before the peak flu season between June and September, as also discussed in our flu season timing guide for Mornington Peninsula families.
TGA-Approved Safety Profile of Paediatric Influenza Vaccines (Injectable and FluMist)
Yes. The flu vaccine has a well-established safety record in children and is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
The injectable vaccine contains inactivated virus particles and cannot cause influenza. FluMist contains a weakened live virus that also cannot cause flu in healthy children.
What to Expect After Vaccination
Most children experience little to no reaction. Common mild responses include:
- Soreness or redness at the injection site
- Low-grade fever for a day or two
- Mild fatigue or irritability
For children receiving FluMist, some may experience a runny nose for a short period after vaccination.
These reactions are a normal sign that the immune system is responding and typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
Pre-Vaccination Screening and Contraindications for Childhood Influenza Immunisation
Let your GP know if your child:
- Has a known allergy to any vaccine component
- Has previously had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine
- Has asthma or a condition affecting the immune system
- Is currently unwell with a fever
Children with egg allergies can generally receive the flu vaccine safely. Always mention any allergies to your GP before the appointment.
Pre-vaccination screening, including checking medical history and current health status, is often part of routine paediatric check-ups in general practice.
Accessing Paediatric Influenza Vaccination Services in Mornington (Clinic-Based Care)
At The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic in Mornington, we offer influenza vaccinations for children as part of our paediatric health and immunisation services.
Our team will confirm your child’s eligibility, recommend the most suitable vaccine, and make the experience as comfortable as possible for both parent and child.
We are open Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Saturday to Sunday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM including public holidays, with extended hours that make it easy to book around school and work.
Appointments are available for childhood influenza vaccination at The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic in Mornington
Call (03) 5925 9293
Protecting your child from the flu is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do heading into winter.
With the flu vaccine now available from April, and the new needle-free FluMist option available for children aged 2 and over, there are more ways than ever to keep your family covered this flu season.
At The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic in Mornington, our team is here to make the process easy, comfortable, and stress-free for your whole family.
FAQs
At what age can my child get the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is recommended for all children from 6 months of age. Children aged 6 months to under 5 years are eligible for a free vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
Is the flu vaccine free for my child?
Yes, if your child is aged 6 months to under 5 years. Children outside this age group with certain medical conditions may also be eligible. Speak to your GP to confirm.
What is FluMist and is it available in Mornington?
FluMist is a needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine available in Australia for the first time in 2026. It is approved for children aged 2 to under 18. In Victoria it is available through the private market. Our team at The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic can advise on availability and suitability for your child.
Does my child need one or two doses?
Most children need one dose per year. Children receiving the flu vaccine for the first time, particularly those under 2 or those with medical risk conditions, may need two doses four weeks apart. Your GP will advise at the time of booking.
Can my child get the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations?
Yes. The flu vaccine can be safely co-administered with most other childhood vaccines. This can make it easy to combine with scheduled immunisation visits.
What if my child is afraid of needles?
The new FluMist nasal spray vaccine may be a suitable alternative for children aged 2 and over who are anxious about injections. Speak to your GP to find out whether your child is eligible and whether it is the right option for them.
References
- Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). Statement on the Administration of Seasonal Influenza Vaccines in 2026. Available at: https://www.health.gov.au
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). 2026 Seasonal Influenza Vaccines. Available at: https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/publication/corporate-reports/2026-seasonal-influenza-vaccines
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS). Influenza Vaccines Frequently Asked Questions. Available at: https://ncirs.org.au/influenza/influenza-vaccines-frequently-asked-questions-faqs
- Victorian Department of Health. Seasonal Influenza Vaccine 2026. Available at: https://www.health.vic.gov.au/immunisation/seasonal-influenza-vaccine
- Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine. Available at: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine