PARENTS in South Australia can now take their children aged six months to five years to pharmacies to get their free flu shot under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

As of this week, the state government will provide pharmacists with the free child-specific flu vaccine and also cover any service fees.

Previously, children under five had to go to their GP or local council clinic to get their free flu shot.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has welcomed the decision, calling it “a vital step to improve access and protect more young children from serious illness”.

PSA SA and NT President, Dr Manya Angley, said the announcement improves equity of access, regardless of where people choose to get vaccinated.

Children under five are one of the groups most at risk of flu complications, and currently only one in five is vaccinated, leaving many vulnerable as cases climb across the state.

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