How early childhood services can support flu prevention

As winter approaches, early childhood education and care (ECEC) services play a critical role in supporting children’s health and wellbeing. Influenza is more than a seasonal inconvenience, for children under five, it can lead to serious illness. Each year, many young children require medical care, and in some cases, hospitalisation due to flu-related complications.

One of the most effective ways to reduce this risk is straightforward: annual flu vaccination.

Children aged six months to under five years are particularly vulnerable to influenza as their immune systems are still developing. Complications can include pneumonia, dehydration, ear infections, and the worsening of existing medical conditions. In more severe cases, hospitalisation may be required.

The annual flu vaccine remains the most effective protection. It is:

• Safe and supported by a strong evidence base
• Updated each year to target the most common circulating strains
• Free for children aged six months to under five years under the National Immunisation Program

Families can access flu vaccines through GPs, immunisation clinics and participating pharmacies, making it accessible ahead of peak flu season.

ECEC services are a trusted source of information for families, and even small actions can make a meaningful difference in vaccination uptake.

• Display accessible information
  Government-issued posters and brochures can be placed in high-traffic areas such as sign-in stations, foyers, parent communication boards and staff rooms. These visible prompts act as simple reminders at key touch-points throughout the day.

• Leverage existing communication channels
  Services can share short, consistent messages through their usual platforms, including parent apps, newsletters, emails and social media. Clear reminders that the flu vaccine is free for children under five can prompt families to take action.

• Encourage everyday conversations
  Educators and leaders are well positioned to reinforce key messages through informal interactions. A brief, supportive conversation can be enough to raise awareness and encourage families to book an appointment.

• Build staff confidence
  Ensuring staff understand the importance of flu vaccination, where families can access it, and the eligibility for free vaccines helps create consistency in messaging. Informed teams are better equipped to support informed families.

Protecting children’s health is a shared responsibility between families, health professionals and early childhood services. By actively promoting flu vaccination, services can help reduce the spread of illness, minimise disruption, and protect the most vulnerable members of their communities.

For more information, including downloadable posters and family-friendly resources, visit the Australian Government’s influenza resource collection here.