What you need to know about seasonal illnesses this spring

SBS Japanese

Experts say vaccines remain the most effective way to prevent serious illness

As Australia enters spring, people are being urged to remain vigilant against respiratory illnesses such as influenza and COVID-19, as well as asthma and allergy symptoms triggered by pollen. From 1 October, eligibility for free COVID-19 vaccinations is also set to change, while experts are raising concerns about low vaccination rates among those most at risk of severe illness.

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Published 9 September 2026 6:00pm

By Yasmine Alwakal, Karishma Luthria

Presented by Haruka Shinno

Source: SBS

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As Australia enters spring, people are being urged to remain vigilant against respiratory illnesses such as influenza and COVID-19, as well as asthma and allergy symptoms triggered by pollen. From 1 October, eligibility for free COVID-19 vaccinations is also set to change, while experts are raising concerns about low vaccination rates among those most at risk of severe illness.

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