General News
11 July, 2026
Pop-up clinics for flu shots at local festivals
PUBLIC health teams will be out in force at festivals and agricultural shows across Far North Queensland this dry season – including Innisfail and Babinda – offering influenza vaccinations to help protect locals against illness.
The initiative comes as large gatherings and increased travel during the seasonal tourism period heighten the risk of flu transmission. There have been 512 confirmed cases of influenza in the Cairns and Hinterland region since the start of the year, with this number expected to increase in coming weeks.
Cairns Public Health Unit director Dr Jacqui Murdoch said planned vaccination pop-up clinics at popular events aimed to make it easier for people to access flu jabs in convenient locations.
This includes the Innisfail Show, the Cairns Show, the Babinda Harvest Festival and Cairns Pride Festival to provide helpful information about disease prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Flu vaccinations at the Cairns Show will be provided by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.
“Major events like these are fantastic for our community and visitors, but they can also accelerate virus transmission,” Dr Murdoch said.
“By bringing vaccination services directly to major events, we’re helping to ensure that more people can protect themselves, their families and the wider community against the flu.
“Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of influenza, particularly during periods of increased activity.”
The free yearly flu vaccine is now available for Queenslanders through their local GP, pharmacist or other vaccine provider.
The vaccine has also recently been made available as a nasal spray for children aged two-17, particularly children and teenagers who may be afraid of needles.
“Last year in Queensland, 73% of people who went to hospital with the flu had not been vaccinated,” Dr Murdoch said. “Getting a flu vaccine is one of the best ways to stop yourself from becoming seriously ill.
For more information visit www.observer.s.gy/dk4uaM
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