Late Flu Season Hits Australia: Experts Warn of Continued Rise in Cases

Australia is experiencing an unusually late surge in influenza infections this year, with several jurisdictions recording delayed peaks. Despite this, the total number of cases is predicted to be significantly lower than last year.

Last year, Australia recorded a grim record, with over 1,700 deaths from influenza, the highest number this century. However, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners president Dr Michael Wright said the good news is that numbers this year are expected to be lower.

Dr Wright attributed the lower numbers to this year's influenza vaccine, which covers a new strain of the virus that emerged last year. "There may still be another peak coming," Dr Wright said. "And really, it's not too late to still get your flu vaccine."

The Australian Centre for Disease Control tracks laboratory-confirmed influenza cases across the country, showing far fewer cases than the previous year. A spokesperson for the centre said although the rate of flu activity had increased nationally, it had slowed in recent weeks, suggesting the national peak may be approaching.

States are recording upticks in cases, with Queensland Health data showing an unusually late increase in influenza cases across the state. Experts warned the peak may continue to rise, with around 3,435 people diagnosed with influenza in Queensland last week.

In Victoria, influenza notifications have increased by around 400 per cent over the past seven weeks, with influenza A making up most of the cases. Victoria's Chief Health Officer Dr Caroline McElnay said the season has arrived later than previous years. "While it can be difficult to predict exactly when flu activity will peak, cases are expected to remain high over the coming weeks, including through the school holidays," Dr McElnay said.

In New South Wales, reported cases have decreased but remain at a high level. In South Australia, the number of influenza cases reported is well below figures at the same time last year, but SA Health said cases are on the rise. In Tasmania, cases are also on the rise but remain at "moderate" levels, according to the state's Health Department.

Tasmanian Department of Health's Dr Shannon Melody said acute respiratory infections are increasing across the entire state and all age groups. Dr Wright advised higher-risk individuals, such as those with chronic health conditions, children under five, and older Australians, to seek medical advice on whether a vaccine is needed.

FluTracking Australia's latest report shows self-reported respiratory illness activity has plateaued this month, with the surge occurring later than in previous years.