What is the difference between flu and the common cold?
The common cold usually has different symptoms to the flu. Colds tend to begin slowly and symptoms include a sore throat, blocked or runny nose, and a cough. Symptoms are less severe than flu.

The flu comes on very quickly and symptoms are severe immediately. You will experience high fever, and muscle aches and pains.

Typical flu usually lasts from five to 10 days. However, the cough and feeling of exhaustion can last for several weeks, making it difficult to return to normal daily activities.

Why do we need a vaccination every year?
Each year, the circulating flu viruses tend to change, so the vaccine is updated to include the most current flu virus strains. Also, the protection that the body makes after being vaccinated declines over time, so one year after being vaccinated the immunity levels are low and may not be sufficiently protective.

How are the strains selected?
The three vaccine strains are selected by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WHO has over 100 national flu centres worldwide, which analyse viruses in circulation in the community and provides updates on the changing strains.

Each year, the WHO recommends what strains make up the vaccine for the forthcoming year. In Australia, the Australian Influenza Vaccine Committee then determines the final vaccine formulation.

Why should apparently fit and healthy people in the 'at risk' groups get vaccinated?
Being fit and healthy does not protect you against flu infection. Vaccination is the primary way to prevent catching flu, because it is extremely difficult to avoid exposure to the flu viruses in the community. A flu infection is likely to worsen an underlying medical condition, such as asthma or diabetes, even if that condition is usually controlled.