Virulent 'Brisbane' flu strain prompts calls to vaccinate now

Australians are being urged to get vaccinated ahead of the flu season, with a particularly hostile strain expected this year.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt receives a flu vaccine in Sydney, April 13, 2017 Source: AAP

As Australia braces for another severe flu season, medical experts are urging people to get their flu jab before the beginning of May.

The World Health Organisation says the Brisbane strain, named after the city where it originated, is among the most deadly forms of the virus in the world.