Adults aged ≥65 years are recommended to receive influenza vaccine every year

The adjuvanted influenza vaccine is funded through the NIP for all adults aged ≥65 years. For details see the National Immunisation Program Schedule.

Either the adjuvanted influenza vaccine, Fluad (NIP funded), or the high-dose influenza vaccine, Fluzone High-Dose, is recommended in preference to standard-dose (either egg-based or cell-based) influenza vaccine for adults aged ≥65 years. See also Vaccine information.

Influenza-associated mortality rates are highest among adults aged ≥65 years.⁴ Vaccinating elderly people reduces hospitalisations from influenza and pneumonia, and all-cause mortality.⁸