Parents urged to vaccinate young children as SA flu cases surge

South Australian health authorities are urging parents to protect children under five by taking up free flu vaccinations, as the state records a significant spike in flu cases.

With fewer than one in five children under five currently vaccinated against influenza, the South Australian Government is intensifying efforts to boost uptake through a targeted advertising campaign, running across social media, online platforms and outdoor media until the end of June.

Despite South Australia recording the highest flu vaccination rates of any mainland state nearing 30 per cent, health leaders remain concerned about low coverage among the youngest age group.

So far this year, 781 cases of flu have been reported in children under five, with 87 requiring hospitalisation. In total, 6,754 flu cases have been recorded across the state in 2025, up from 4,267 at the same time last year.

The campaign highlights the message that “even healthy children get sick”, reminding parents that the flu can have serious health consequences and that prevention through vaccination is key.

Free flu vaccines are available for several high-risk groups including:

• Children under five years
• People aged over 65 years
• Pregnant women
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Individuals over six months with eligible medical conditions

Health and Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton said the free vaccination program is designed to protect those most vulnerable to severe illness.

“Protecting young children from the severe impacts of the flu is so important, which is why we are urging all South Australian parents to get their kids vaccinated this winter,” Mr Picton said.

“Young children are especially vulnerable to the serious impacts of flu and more likely to end up in hospital.”

“South Australians have a strong record for rolling up their sleeves. Overall, our flu vaccine uptake is higher than the national average and better than any mainland state we just need more parents to get their young kids vaccinated.”

Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier also emphasised the importance of action as winter sets in.

“Getting a flu vaccine and ensuring your little ones are vaccinated is one simple measure to give you peace of mind,” Professor Spurrier said.

“Respiratory infections such as flu spread quickly in childcare and kindy settings especially during the colder months when kids spend more time indoors.”

“Prioritising a free flu vaccine for your child will ensure your child is not the one that ends up in hospital.”

Parents and caregivers can check eligibility and find more information via the SA Health website.