Experts warn of late-season uptick in influenza

Queensland Health has reported a late surge in influenza cases across the state, with experts warning the peak may continue rising. Queensland's free flu vaccination program ends on September 30, and with immunity waning, there's a risk more people could fall ill. From mid-July, influenza cases in Queensland have been increasing, despite a 69 per cent reduction compared to the same period last year.

Last week saw a 27 per cent rise in reported cases compared to the previous week, with 2,930 cases reported, including 294 hospitalisations. Virology expert Lara Herrero at Griffith University expressed concern that cases are on an upward trajectory, likely due to the late onset of flu season. She emphasized that the more time passes since the initial vaccination, the higher the chance of immunity waning.

Public health measures like hand-washing, social distancing, and mask-wearing are crucial in protecting against influenza as the weather warms. The Queensland Free Flu Vaccination Program will conclude on September 30, which may coincide with the peak of the outbreak. Chief Health Officer Marianne Gale has urged Queenslanders to get vaccinated, as last year saw a record number of cases, potentially changing population immunity to the flu.