Parents will be able to take their children aged six months to five years to pharmacies to get their flu shot from Monday 7 July, following a jump in cases.
The State Government will supply pharmacists with the child-specific influenza vaccine and cover any service fees, ensuring there is no cost to parents.
Previously, children under five - one of the groups most at risk of flu complications - had to go to their GP or local council clinic to get their free flu shot.
In new figures released 4 July, there have been 10,569 flu cases reporting so far this year - a 70 per cent jump in cases from 6212 at the same time last year.
In the past week alone there's been a sharp rise, with 1627 new cases reported, a 28 per cent increase on the 1268 new cases reported the week prior and a 77 per cent increase compared to two weeks ago (918 weekly cases).
So far this year, there have been 1252 flu cases in children under five with 148 hospitalised, compared to 796 cases and 79 hospital admissions at the same time last year.
Babies and young children have a higher risk of developing complications from the flu and are more likely to need to see a doctor or be hospitalised, however only one in five is vaccinated.
Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier said providing increased access to free flu vaccinations gave parents greater choice.
"Flu is a very serious infection for young babies and children under the age of five and a significant number require hospitalisation for associated bronchiolitis and pneumonia," Professor Spurrier said.
"Tragically flu can also be fatal even in children previously healthy. Our little ones deserve to be given the extra protection through vaccination. This new initiative makes this easier."
The flu vaccine is free for all at-risk groups through the National Immunisation Program (NIP), including children under five, people over 65, pregnant women, Aboriginal people and those with underlying health conditions.
South Australians intending to vaccinate their young children under the new service are encouraged to call their local pharmacy or check online to locate a participating site and book in.
For more information on flu vaccines for young children, visit SA Health.
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