If you have been meaning to book a flu vaccine in Cheltenham, May is a smart time to do it. Melbourne’s cold and flu season usually becomes more noticeable as winter approaches, and getting vaccinated before peak winter gives your body time to build protection.
At BAYMED Medical Centre & Skin Cancer Clinic, patients from Cheltenham, Bayside and nearby south-east Melbourne suburbs can speak with a GP about the seasonal influenza vaccine, eligibility, and the best timing for their situation
Why book your flu shot in May?
May is not too late for a flu shot in Cheltenham. In fact, it is a practical time for many people because winter is just around the corner.
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over, and Victorian health guidance describes annual flu vaccination as the most important measure to help prevent influenza and its complications.
A May appointment can be especially useful if you are:
- booking a family flu vaccine in Cheltenham
- organising a flu shot before winter school or childcare illness increases
- aged 65 or over
- pregnant
- living with a chronic medical condition
- caring for someone at higher risk of flu complications
Is May the best time for a flu shot in Melbourne?
For many people, yes. The Australian Government recommends annual influenza vaccination when the vaccine becomes available, before the start of the influenza season. Vaccination can also continue while influenza viruses are circulating and vaccine is available.
So, if you have not had your 2026 flu vaccine yet, May is still a sensible time to book your 2026 flu vaccine.
Who should consider getting vaccinated?
The seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended for people aged 6 months and over. It is especially important for people at higher risk of complications, including young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with certain medical conditions.
Some people may be eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program, including:
- children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- pregnant women
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- people aged 65 years and over
- people aged 6 months and over with certain medical risk conditions
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a free flu vaccine in Victoria, it is best to check with the clinic when booking.
Can seniors get a different flu vaccine?
Yes. For adults aged 65 years and over, 2026 Australian guidance says the NIP-funded adjuvanted vaccine and the private high-dose influenza vaccine are preferentially recommended over standard influenza vaccines.
This is a good reason for older adults to book with a GP clinic rather than guessing which vaccine is right for them.
Where can I book a flu vaccine in Cheltenham or Bayside?
You can book a flu vaccine appointment with BAYMED Medical Centre & Skin Cancer Clinic in Cheltenham. The clinic provides GP care, flu vaccinations and broader family medicine services for patients in Cheltenham, Bayside and surrounding suburbs.
Ready to organise your winter flu protection? Book your flu vaccine in Cheltenham with BAYMED and ask the team whether you or your family members may be eligible for a free or NIP-funded influenza vaccine.
FAQs
Is May too late to get a flu shot in Melbourne?
No. May is still a practical time to get vaccinated before winter. Flu vaccination can also continue while influenza is circulating and vaccine is available.
Do I need a flu vaccine every year?
Yes. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended because flu viruses change over time and vaccine protection needs to be updated each year.
Can children get the flu vaccine?
Yes. Flu vaccination is recommended for people aged 6 months and over. Some children, including children aged 6 months to under 5 years, may be eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
Can I get my flu shot and another vaccine on the same day?
In many cases, influenza vaccines can be given on the same day as other vaccines. However, it is best to speak with your GP for advice based on your health, age, vaccine history and circumstances.
Can pregnant women get the flu vaccine?
Yes. Pregnant women are one of the groups eligible for a free influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program.
Where can I book a flu vaccine in Cheltenham?
You can book a flu vaccine appointment with BAYMED Medical Centre & Skin Cancer Clinic in Cheltenham.
