The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is urging Australians to prioritize annual flu vaccinations, despite current infection rates sitting significantly lower than the record-breaking figures seen in 2025. According to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, there have been approximately 36,800 lab-confirmed influenza cases in 2026, roughly one-third of the volume recorded during the same period last year.
Why Vaccination Remains Critical Despite Lower Case Numbers
While the current flu season has started slowly, health authorities warn against complacency. RACGP President Dr. Michael Wright stated that while case numbers are currently lower than the 98,447 reported between January and May 2025, the unpredictable nature of viral transmission means the season could still intensify.
“We can’t predict how bad a flu season will be,” Dr. Wright said. “The best way to avoid both a bad flu, and the stress hospitalisations due to influenza put on our hospitals, is by ensuring everyone gets a flu vaccination.”
Vaccination protects against more than just the flu. GPs are currently offering combined protection strategies, including shots for COVID-19 and RSV, to help vulnerable Australians stay safe throughout the winter months.
The Impact of Needle-Free Vaccines on Uptake
A notable trend in public health is the success of needle-free intranasal vaccines in increasing coverage among children. According to health department figures, vaccination uptake for patients under five years old is 15.7% higher than in 2025 and 16.1% higher than in 2024.
This surge follows the decision by several jurisdictions to make these vaccines free. However, the availability is not uniform across the country. Families in Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, and the Northern Territory are currently required to pay privately for the needle-free option, a disparity Dr. Wright is calling on politicians to address.
Regional Disparities in Vaccine Access
The effectiveness of subsidized programs highlights a clear link between cost-free access and increased community participation. Dr. Wright has issued a direct appeal to state and territory governments in Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, and the NT to follow the lead of other jurisdictions by subsidizing free access to intranasal vaccines to help protect families.
| Metric | 2026 Status |
|---|---|
| Lab-confirmed influenza cases (Jan–May) | ~36,800 |
| Under-5s vaccine uptake vs 2025 | +15.7% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the flu season worse this year?
No. According to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, case numbers are currently about one-third of what they were during the same period in 2025, which was a record-high year.
Why is the RACGP pushing for intranasal vaccines?
Data shows that free intranasal vaccines have successfully driven higher vaccination rates among children under five compared to previous years.
Should I get vaccinated if I feel healthy?
Yes. The RACGP emphasizes that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe illness and reduce the burden of hospitalizations, particularly for seniors and those at higher risk.
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