Health Victoria data shows there have been 34 cases in the city this year, compared to one in the same time period last year.

Dr Philip Hall, the city's chief medical officer, said there was an increase in the number of inter-seasonal influenza cases.

But he said there was no need to panic and he does not recommend having a flu shot early.

"There has been an increase in inter-seasonal influenza, but there's no panic stations at all," Dr Hall said.

"If you vaccinate everyone too early there may be a far greater outbreak in September or October that can potentially cause more damage."

Dr Hall said the government advised people wait until the middle of April to get a flu shot.

He said a flu shot should be given as part of a comprehensive health assessment and should be recorded in a patient's medical records.

Dr Hall said the government was aware there was a shortage of flu shots last year and this year had taken measures to ensure more were available to ensure this would not happen again.

Warrnambool City Council offers free influenza vaccines for at special risk groups, including infants and children aged six months to under 5.

Chemist Warehouse Gateway Plaza pharmacist Jason Yacoub said the city had been hit hard by the flu in 2019.

"I know it has hit pretty hard," Mr Yacoub said.

He said there were more cases that had not been reported.

"I would imagine there would be a lot more. I have spoken to a lot of healthy people who treat themselves," Mr Yacoub said.

Mr Yacoub said he recommended everyone over the age of 16 get a flu shot.

"Even if you are a healthy adult the flu will affect you and more importantly, you will be in contact with someone over 65," he said.

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