For many of us, flu can mean a nasty few weeks of illness. But for the very young and old, and those with health complications, it can be extremely serious, leading to around 3,500 deaths in Australia each year.

You likely know vaccination is the best protection against the flu (influenza), and may have even read our recent article about the best time to get vaccinated.

So, what are your options? And are you eligible for a free flu shot?

Here are the answers to some common questions I’ve been getting: about which strains this year’s vaccine protects against, whether the brand matters, if there are egg-free options, and what to do if you’re scared of needles.

Will the vaccine protect against the ‘super K’ strain?

Each year, influenza strains accumulate small mutations that are different enough from each other that the immune system doesn’t recognise them well. This is why vaccine components need to change each year, to anticipate what will circulate the following season.

One strain of influenza, called subclade K – also known as “Super K” – was responsible for many influenza infections in late 2025, both in the southern hemisphere, and during the usual northern hemisphere winter season.

In 2026, the southern hemisphere vaccine contains two new components, with one closely related to subclade K. This should lead to better protection against subclade K infections.

Does the brand make a difference? And will I have a choice?

Vaccines can vary in the way........

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