Think you've dodged the flu this year? Don't be so sure

Several Australian jurisdictions have reported higher-than-normal influenza cases in recent weeks, indicating a later-than-usual flu season. Health officials predict this year's flu season will be less severe than in 2025, which recorded the highest number of influenza-related deaths in a century. While flu activity has increased earlier than usual, case numbers have recently begun to decline, suggesting a national peak may be near.

Dr. Michael Wright, president of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, notes that this year's flu numbers are expected to be lower, thanks in part to the vaccine covering a new strain of the virus that was responsible for the second peak last year. Although new cases are slowing down, there may still be another peak. The Australian Centre for Disease Control reports that the number of laboratory-confirmed flu cases across the country is significantly lower this year compared to the previous year.

In early September, Queensland experienced an unusually late surge in influenza cases, with abnormally low reports throughout the year. Experts warn that the peak may continue to rise, with data from last week showing about 3,435 people diagnosed with influenza in Queensland. Similarly, Victoria has seen a 400% increase in influenza notifications over the past seven weeks, with influenza A being the predominant strain.

Emergency departments in Victoria have also experienced a 25% increase in acute respiratory infections, primarily affecting children.

While flu cases in New South Wales and South Australia have slightly decreased compared to the previous year, they remain at high levels. Tasmania's flu cases are also on the rise, but remain at moderate levels. Health officials emphasize that higher-risk individuals, such as those with chronic health conditions, children under five, and older Australians, should still get vaccinated.

FluTracking Australia's weekly national data, released as of September 13, shows that respiratory illness has plateaued, indicating that the surge in flu cases has occurred later than in previous years.