At your immunisation appointment, your immunisation provider will discuss the vaccines you will receive and talk about any possible side effects and how to manage them. It’s important to discuss any health issues with your provider before getting vaccinated.
Speak to your immunisation provider at your appointment if you have any questions.
A mild illness, such as a cold with a low fever, usually does not need to delay your immunisation. However, in some situations, immunisation may need to be postponed due to certain medical conditions. Your immunisation provider will advise if this applies to you.
Let your immunisation provider know if you:
- had a severe reaction to a previous vaccine
- have a severe allergy to anything
- have a history of severe allergy to vaccines
- received a live vaccine in the last month (for example, measles, tuberculosis, yellow fever)
- had a blood transfusion or immunoglobulin treatment in the last 3 months
- have a condition that weakens your immune system (for example, cancer, HIVE/AIDS, or are on treatments like steroids, radiotherapy and chemotherapy that lower immunity
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- are feeling unwell at the time of vaccination
- have had Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).
People who have previously had GBS have a higher chance of developing it again. Because of this, they may also be more likely than others to develop GBS by coincidence after an influenza vaccination. Diagnosing GBS is complex and must be made by a specialist.
The only reason not to have an influenza vaccine is if you have had a severe allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to a previous influenza vaccine or to any ingredient in a vaccine. Such reactions are very rare.
Your immunisation provider can discuss your medical history with you and help decide whether the influenza vaccine is recommended for you.