AMA Tasmania urges Tasmanians to ‘have the jab chat’ with their GP

Dr Meg Creely, Vice President of AMA Tasmania, GP and mum, said flu is one of the infections that hits hardest in winter, and it can move quickly through households, schools and workplaces, affecting people of all ages.

Most people will get the standard flu vaccine by injection. For children aged 2–11, some practices are also offering an intranasal vaccine (nasal spray). At this point however in Tasmania, it is not funded under the National Immunisation Program, so families may pay up to $65 per child.

“If you’re not sure what you or your kids need, that’s exactly what your GP is for,” Dr Creely said. “Have the jab chat, get clear advice, and get protected early.” Dr Creely noted GP clinics are ready, with good vaccine supply and dedicated flu clinics running across the state.

“We’re set up for this, and we can make it quick and straightforward,” she said.

As a GP and a parent, Dr Creely added that she sees how needle anxiety can make vaccination harder for some children, and the nasal spray can help for those who are eligible.

“All influenza vaccines used in Australia are safe and effective, regardless of how they’re given. The most important thing is that children are protected.”

Influenza can cause serious illness, particularly for older Tasmanians, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions. People of any age can spread the virus, which is why vaccination matters for everyone.

The call comes as new Australian Bureau of Statistics data on deaths due to acute respiratory infections show influenza-related mortality remained elevated in 2025.

“For families, especially with more than one child, the cost can be a barrier; access shouldn’t depend on what a family can afford,” Dr Creely said.

AMA Tasmania has called on the Tasmanian Government to advocate for national funding of the nasal spray vaccine and, in the meantime, consider a state-based subsidy for children aged 2–11 years.

“It’s a practical step that could support families and help lift vaccination rates,” Dr Creely added.

“We know influenza can be deadly. The latest ABS figures show there were more than 1,700 deaths involving influenza recorded nationally in 2025: the highest number this century. Protecting yourself and your loved ones with vaccination could mean saving the life of your grandmother or your child.”

“Getting vaccinated is one of the simplest things you can do to protect yourself and the people around you, especially babies, older relatives and anyone with chronic illness,” Dr Creely said.

She encouraged Tasmanians to book in early, before flu starts circulating widely, so protection has time to build ahead of winter.

AMA Tasmania is encouraging Tasmanians to book now, ahead of the winter peak. 

Quick Tassie winter checklist: unpack the Tassie tuxedo (puffer jacket) and book your flu vaccine.

“Have the jab chat with your GP and get your flu vaccine sorted before this year’s Tassie winter sets in,” she said.