Rising flu cases leads to free vaccines from NT Health
Flu cases are on the rise, prompting the Health Minister to urge Territorians to get vaccinated. See if you are eligible for a free jab.
Northern Territory
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A surge in flu cases across the Top End has led Health Minister Steve Edgington to plead with Territorians to get vaccinated.
An NT Health spokesman said about a quarter of the cases had led to hospitalisations.
“Since the beginning of 2025, there have been more than 1400 cases confirmed, mostly in the Top End and East Arnhem regions,” the spokesman said.
“So far, there have been 360 reported hospitalisations in the NT due to flu.
“Last year 3303 cases of flu were recorded with around 68,4000 Territorians receiving the flu vaccine, compared to 2776 cases in 2023 where 73,300 Territorians received the flu vaccine.”
Mr Edgington said it was important Territorians over the age of six months received a flu vaccine every year.
“Different viral strains of the flu occur each year and it is important to receive an annual flu vaccine to ensure the best protection against current strains,“ he said.
“By getting the flu vaccine, Territorians not only protect themselves but prevent giving the flu to others, helping to keep the community safe.
“I’ve taken action in our government’s year of action and received my flu vaccination to remind Territorians to do everything they can to avoid getting sick.”
To encourage people to get the jab, Mr Edgington said high-risk individuals would be eligible for a free vaccine.
The following Territorians can book in for a free vaccine at participating GPs and pharmacies.
- All children aged 6 months to 5 years.
- All Aboriginal people aged 6 months and over.
- People aged 65 years and older.
- Pregnant women during any stage of pregnancy.
- People aged 6 months and over with conditions predisposing them to complications from influenza.
Territorians aged five years and over who are eligible for a free vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) can also get vaccinated from a participating pharmacy.
“Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious influenza complications and for people who live with or care for high-risk individuals, but I encourage everyone to be vaccinated,” Mr Edgington said.
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