Flu Vaccination in Mentone: Questions and Answers From Your Local GP

Influenza returns every winter in Australia. Many people think of the flu as just a bad cold. In reality, it can cause serious illness, especially for young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

If you live in Mentone or nearby suburbs, getting your yearly flu shot with a GP in Mentone is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and your family.

Below are the most common questions patients ask at Mentone General Practice about flu vaccination.

What Is Influenza?

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with infected people.

Typical symptoms include:

  • fever

  • chills

  • cough

  • sore throat

  • muscle aches

  • headaches

  • tiredness

Some people recover within a few days. Others develop complications such as pneumonia or severe respiratory illness.

Is the Flu the Same as a Cold?

No. A cold usually causes mild symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat.

Influenza tends to appear suddenly and often causes:

  • high fever

  • body aches

  • severe fatigue

  • persistent cough

The flu can make people feel very unwell and may lead to hospitalisation in some cases.

Why Do I Need a Flu Vaccine Every Year?

The influenza virus changes every year. New strains circulate each season.

Because of this:

  • The vaccine is updated annually

  • Immunity from last year’s vaccine fades over time

Your GP in Mentone recommends an annual influenza vaccine to ensure the best protection.

When Should I Get My Flu Vaccine?

In Australia, flu vaccines usually become available in March or April.

Getting vaccinated early helps protect you before the main flu season begins.

Most influenza cases occur between June and September, but the virus can circulate at any time.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

Health authorities recommend influenza vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and over.

Vaccination is especially important for people who have a higher risk of complications.

Who Can Get a Free Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for certain groups.

These include:

  • children aged 6 months to under 5 years

  • pregnant women

  • adults aged 65 years and over

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over

  • people with certain chronic medical conditions

Your Mentone GP can help determine whether you qualify for the free vaccine.

Is the Flu Vaccine Safe?

Yes. Influenza vaccines have been used worldwide for many decades and have a strong safety record.

Common side effects are mild and may include:

  • soreness at the injection site

  • redness or swelling

  • mild fatigue

These effects usually disappear within a few days.

Serious reactions are extremely rare.

Can the Flu Vaccine Give Me the Flu?

No. The flu vaccine given by injection does not contain a live influenza virus.

You cannot catch influenza from the vaccine.

Some people may feel slightly tired or achy after vaccination, but this is simply the immune system responding.

Can Pregnant Women Get the Flu Vaccine?

Yes. Flu vaccination is recommended in every pregnancy and can be given at any stage.

Vaccination protects both the mother and the baby. Antibodies passed through the placenta help protect newborns during their first months of life.

Can I Get the Flu Vaccine at the Same Time as Other Vaccines?

Yes. The influenza vaccine can be safely given at the same visit as other vaccines if recommended.

This may include:

  • COVID-19 vaccines

  • RSV vaccines

  • Whooping cough vaccine during pregnancy

  • Shingles vaccine for older adults

Your GP in Mentone will advise what is appropriate for you.

Where Can I Get a Flu Vaccine in Mentone?

If you live in Mentone, Parkdale, Cheltenham, Mordialloc, or Beaumaris, the team at Mentone General Practice offers convenient flu vaccination appointments.

Our clinic provides:

  • Influenza vaccines for adults and children

  • advice about free vaccines under the NIP

  • vaccination during routine GP appointments

  • friendly and experienced doctors and nurses

How Do I Book My Flu Shot?

Booking your flu vaccination is simple.

Contact Mentone General Practice to arrange an appointment with a GP in Mentone.

Protect yourself, protect your family, and help reduce the spread of influenza in the community this winter.

References

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
National Immunisation Program – Influenza Vaccination Consumer Fact Sheet (2026)