In Victoria, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection numbers are high among young children in early childhood education and care services, or in their first few years of school. The Victorian Department of Health expects more infections over the next few weeks as winter continues.
Most children with flu or RSV have a mild fever, runny nose or cough. Some children, particularly babies and children with underlying medical conditions, may have more severe illness.
Keeping our community well
Parents, carers and children are encouraged to:
- wash and sanitise their hands regularly
- avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
- stay at home if unwell and consult a general practitioner (GP) or NURSE-ON-CALL as needed
- stay up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Our service has masks for staff, students and visitors if they want to wear them.
Flu vaccinations
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting the flu. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. As part of the National Immunisation Program, it is free for:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older
- children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- people aged 6 months or older with underlying medical conditions.
Flu vaccinations can be booked through GPs, pharmacies or your local council immunisation service.
Find out more
For more information about staying safe this winter, refer to:
- Stay well this winter on the Better Health Channel, translated into 16 languages.
- Influenza and immunisation on the Better Health Channel
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the Better Health Channel
- Getting vaccinated against influenza.
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