People in New South Wales at higher risk from the flu are being urged to get vaccinated against the virus now.
Experts says it's difficult to predict how severe the looming flu season will be this year.
The most recent flu season in the northern hemisphere started earlier than usual and in the United States the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported higher than normal hospitalisations.
But it's difficult to know how the season will play out here, New South Wales Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said.
"It's really very difficult to predict," she said.
"For planning purposes we are considering the potential early start to the flu season and a protracted flu season and a flu season that coincides with both RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID circulating at reasonable levels."
Here's everything you need to know about getting a flu and COVID shot this year.
Will peak flu season coincide with another COVID-19 wave?
The latest Respiratory Surveillance Report from NSW Health describes the current level of COVID-19 transmission in the state as "considerable".
While notifications of confirmed COVID cases have dropped, the number of people hospitalised with the virus has increased as has the number of health care workers furloughed after testing positive.
That suggests transmission is increasing, Dr Chant said.
"When we are indicating that there is a wave, it may not really be evident from the hospitalisation data that we are putting out, but nevertheless it's important that the community is aware that there is more COVID around," she said.
Meanwhile levels of influenza in the community remain low, but flu cases usually start to increase rapidly in May.
The flu season usually lasts until about October but last year the season started early and peaked in June.
NSW Health said transmission of both viruses was likely to increase as people tend to move indoors more to mingle during the colder months, but whether the peak of the flu season and the height of the next COVID wave coincide is anyone's guess.
Can I get a COVID booster at the same time as my flu shot?
Yes, the two vaccines can be given at the same time.
So if you're due for your COVID booster and haven't had this year's flu shot you can get them on the same day.
Dr Chant said the best protection against both the flu and COVID was vaccination and urged all people who were eligible for the shots to see their doctor.
Is the flu shot free?
The flu shot is free for priority groups including people over the age of 65, children under the age of five, Aboriginal people, pregnant women and those with serious health conditions.
Anyone else who wants a shot will need to pay.
The COVID-19 booster is free for anyone who is eligible.
I've had COVID recently, should I still get boosted?
If it's been six months or more since you were infected with COVID-19 or had your last booster, NSW Health says your immunity may be waning.
It recommends you speak to your doctor about whether you should receive another dose.
It's suggested that all adults consider a booster, but for some groups — like those over 65 — it's strongly recommended.
Where can I get the flu vaccine?
Children under the age of five must get their influenza shot from the GP but everyone else can choose to receive it from either a pharmacy or GP.
Pharmacies are also still offering COVID boosters.
"When people book, they should ask their pharmacist or GP if they are eligible for a free flu vaccine," NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said.
"There is plenty of stock available throughout the state, so now is the time to book your shot."
