Flu Vaccine 2026 Australia: What’s Changed and Which Vaccine Should You Choose?
- Your Health Ally
- Mar 12
- 4 min read
As we approach the 2026 influenza season, several important updates have been introduced to influenza vaccines in Australia. These updates affect the types of vaccines available, eligibility for government-funded vaccines, and the introduction of a needle-free option for children.
Understanding these changes can help individuals and families choose the most appropriate vaccine this year.
Influenza Vaccines Are Now Trivalent
In previous years, influenza vaccines were quadrivalent, meaning they protected against four strains of the virus.
From 2026 onwards, influenza vaccines in Australia are trivalent, meaning they protect against:
Two Influenza A strains (H1N1 and H3N2)
One Influenza B strain
The B/Yamagata lineage has been removed from vaccines due to its lack of global circulation in recent years. This decision aligns with international recommendations to simplify vaccine composition while maintaining protection against circulating strains.
Standard Influenza Vaccines
Most influenza vaccines used in Australia are standard egg-based inactivated vaccines. These vaccines have been used safely for many years and are suitable for most adults and children.
Common standard influenza vaccines include:
Influvac
Vaxigrip
Fluzone
These vaccines are available through general practices and pharmacies, and some individuals may be eligible for government-funded vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
Cell-Based Influenza Vaccine
Australia also has one cell-based influenza vaccine available:
Flucelvax
Unlike traditional flu vaccines that are produced using eggs, cell-based vaccines are manufactured using cell culture technology.
Some people prefer this option because:
It avoids egg-based production
It uses newer manufacturing technology
However, this vaccine is generally more expensive and is not funded under the National Immunisation Program.
Enhanced Influenza Vaccines for Older Adults
As people age, the immune system becomes less responsive to vaccination. To improve protection, enhanced influenza vaccines are recommended for older adults.
Fluad (Adjuvanted Influenza Vaccine)
Fluad
Fluad is an egg-based influenza vaccine containing an adjuvant, which helps stimulate a stronger immune response.
Key points:
Designed for older adults
Funded under the National Immunisation Program for adults aged 65 years and older
Available for private purchase for adults aged 50 years and above
Because of the immune-stimulating adjuvant, injection-site reactions occur in around 30% of recipients, although these are usually mild and short-lived.
(Previously known as Fluad Quad when influenza vaccines were quadrivalent.)
Fluzone High-Dose
Fluzone High-Dose
This vaccine contains four times the amount of antigen compared with standard influenza vaccines.
Each strain contains 60 micrograms of antigen, designed to generate a stronger immune response in older adults.
Important notes:
Available only via private purchase
Typically more expensive than other flu vaccines
Needle-Free Flu Vaccine for Children
One of the most notable updates this year is the availability of a needle-free influenza vaccine for children.
FluMist
FluMist is a live attenuated influenza vaccine delivered as a nasal spray.
It is approved for children aged 2–17 years.
Because it is given through the nose, it stimulates immunity at the site where the virus typically enters the body. It also triggers antibody production in the bloodstream and activates immune cells that respond to infection.
This option may help improve vaccination uptake among children.
A report from the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne found that one in four children aged four years and older experiences intense fear of needles, which can make vaccination difficult. A needle-free vaccine may help address this barrier.
Some states may offer funded programs for this vaccine, so eligibility may vary depending on location.
Who Should Not Receive FluMist
Because FluMist is a live vaccine, it is not suitable for certain individuals.
FluMist should not be used in:
Pregnant women
Immunocompromised individuals
In these cases, healthcare professionals may recommend an inactivated influenza vaccine instead.
Quick Summary – 2026 Flu Vaccine Changes
Influenza vaccines in Australia are now trivalent (3 strains) instead of quadrivalent.
The B/Yamagata strain has been removed due to lack of circulation globally.
FluMist nasal spray is now available for children aged 2–17 years.
Enhanced vaccines like Fluad and Fluzone High-Dose are designed for older adults.
Fluad is funded under the National Immunisation Program for adults ≥65 years.Why Influenza Vaccination Still Matters
If you are unsure which vaccine is most appropriate for you or your family, speaking with a pharmacist or doctor can help guide the decision based on age, medical history and eligibility for funded vaccines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are flu vaccines still quadrivalent in 2026?
No. Influenza vaccines in Australia are now trivalent, protecting against two Influenza A strains and one Influenza B strain. The B/Yamagata lineage has been removed because it has not circulated globally in recent years.
Is the nasal flu vaccine available in Australia?
Yes. FluMist is a needle-free influenza vaccine given as a nasal spray and approved for children aged 2–17 years.
Which flu vaccine is recommended for older adults?
Older adults may benefit from enhanced influenza vaccines, including:
Fluad – funded under the NIP for people 65 years and older
Fluzone High-Dose – available via private purchase
These vaccines are designed to improve immune response in older adults.
Can people with egg allergy get the flu vaccine?
Most people with egg allergy can still receive influenza vaccines safely. Guidelines from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy indicate that influenza vaccines can usually be given without special precautions.
References
Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation. Australian Immunisation Handbook – Influenza Vaccines.
Therapeutic Goods Administration. Seasonal Influenza Vaccines – Product Information.
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Vaccination guidelines and allergy considerations.
Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Influenza vaccination programs and childhood needle fear research.
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. National Immunisation Program – Influenza Vaccination.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for recommendations tailored to your health needs.
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