If you are a parent planning a family flu vaccine in Cheltenham, May is a practical time to organise it. Winter is approaching, children are mixing at school and childcare, and flu can spread quickly through families.
Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. For families in Cheltenham, Bayside and nearby south-east Melbourne suburbs, booking your seasonal influenza vaccine before winter can help reduce the risk of serious flu illness.
Why families should think about flu vaccination before winter
Flu is not just a bad cold. Influenza can cause fever, chills, cough, sore throat, tiredness, muscle aches and headaches. In some people, especially young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with medical conditions, flu can lead to serious complications.
Children can also bring respiratory infections home from childcare, kindergarten or school. That is why organising a family flu vaccine in Cheltenham before winter is a sensible step for parents.
school. That is why organising a family flu vaccine in Cheltenham before winter is a sensible step for parents.
Can children get the flu vaccine?
Yes. Flu vaccination is recommended for children aged 6 months and over. Children under 5 years are a priority group because they are at higher risk of serious flu-related complications, and children aged 6 months to under 5 years are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program in Victoria. (Health Victoria)
If you are unsure whether your child is eligible, you can check with the clinic before booking.
Do children need one dose or two?
Some children may need two doses, especially younger children receiving the influenza vaccine for the first time. Victorian 2026 flu vaccination guidance says children aged 6 months to less than 2 years who are receiving the influenza vaccine for the first time are recommended and funded to receive two doses, given at least 4 weeks apart. (Health Victoria)
Because vaccine needs can vary by age and previous vaccination history, it is best to discuss your child’s situation with a GP during a children’s flu vaccine appointment.
Should parents get vaccinated too?
Yes. Flu vaccination is not only for children. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all people aged 6 months and over, including parents and carers. (Health Victoria)
When parents and children are vaccinated, it supports better family flu protection before winter. This can be especially important if your household includes babies, grandparents, pregnant family members or anyone with chronic health conditions.
You can ask about parent and child appointments when you book a flu vaccine appointment.
Are pregnant women in the family eligible for a free flu vaccine?
Yes. Pregnant women are eligible for a free influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program. Flu vaccination during pregnancy is important because pregnancy can increase the risk of severe influenza illness. (Health Victoria)
If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or caring for a newborn, you can speak with a GP clinic about the best timing for your flu vaccine.
Is May too late for a family flu shot in Melbourne?
No. May is still a practical time to book a flu shot. Australian Government 2026 advice says annual flu vaccination is recommended when the vaccine becomes available before the influenza season, and vaccination can continue while influenza viruses are circulating and vaccine is available. (Australian Dept of Health)
So, if your family has not had the 2026 flu vaccine yet, May is still a good time to act.
Can my child get a flu shot with another vaccine?
In many cases, influenza vaccines can be given on the same day as other vaccines. The Australian Government’s 2026 influenza vaccination advice says influenza vaccines can be co-administered with other vaccines. (Australian Dept of Health)
However, parents should still ask their GP for advice based on the child’s age, medical history and vaccine schedule.
Where can families book a flu vaccine in Cheltenham?
Families can book a flu vaccine appointment with BAYMED Medical Centre & Skin Cancer Clinic in Cheltenham. The clinic can help parents understand timing, children’s eligibility, free flu vaccine criteria and vaccination options for the whole family.
FAQs
Can children get the flu vaccine?
Yes. Flu vaccination is recommended for children aged 6 months and over. Children aged 6 months to under 5 years are eligible for a free influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program in Victoria. (Health Victoria)
Is the flu vaccine free for children?
It is free for children aged 6 months to under 5 years under the National Immunisation Program. Older children may also be eligible if they have certain medical risk conditions. (Health Victoria)
Do parents need a flu vaccine too?
Yes. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over, including parents and carers. (Health Victoria)
Is May too late to get a family flu shot in Melbourne?
No. May is still a sensible time to get vaccinated before winter, especially if your family has not yet had the 2026 flu vaccine. Vaccination can also continue while influenza viruses are circulating and vaccine is available. (Australian Dept of Health)
Can my child get a flu vaccine and another vaccine on the same day?
In many cases, yes. Influenza vaccines can be given on the same day as other vaccines, but parents should ask their GP for advice based on their child’s situation. (Australian Dept of Health)
Where can I book a children’s flu vaccine in Cheltenham?
You can book a flu vaccine appointment with BAYMED Medical Centre & Skin Cancer Clinic in Cheltenham.
