The New South Wales government has expanded its free nasal spray flu vaccine program to include all children and adolescents aged two to 17 years. The move follows record flu notifications and low vaccination rates in the state.
In 2025, NSW recorded 186,768 flu notifications, the worst flu season on record. Less than 25% of children aged six months to under five years were vaccinated, with even lower rates among older children and adolescents.
As of May 16, approximately 15% of children aged two to under five had received a flu vaccine, up from about 10% at the same time last year. Of those vaccinated, 69% received the nasal spray, indicating strong uptake of the needle-free option.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the expansion provides more options for families. “The thought of having a needle can be quite overwhelming for children of all ages, so to offer this pain-free option to more children and young people is great news and important for increasing vaccination rates,” he said.
The nasal spray is available through GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, and community pharmacies while stocks last. Free flu injections remain available for high-risk groups, including children aged six months to under five years, pregnant women, Aboriginal people, those aged 65 and over, and people with certain medical conditions.
