AUSTRALIA could be in for one of its worst flu seasons in years, with doctors warning that an early spike in cases and declining vaccination rates are setting the stage for a “perfect storm” of illness, hospitalisations, and even deaths this winter.
Medical experts say flu vaccination rates – especially among high-risk groups – have been steadily falling.
In 2024, only 61 per cent of adults aged 65 and over received the flu vaccine, down from 70 per cent just two years earlier.
The decline is even more dramatic among young children, with only one in four under the age of five receiving a flu shot last year, despite having the highest infection rates.
Last year’s flu season was already the worst in five years, with more than 365,000 reported cases and over 4200 hospital admissions across the country.
The situation could worsen this year, with health modelling based on northern hemisphere data pointing toward a severe outbreak in Australia.
Current health data shows that one in three telehealth calls to doctors is related to respiratory symptoms.
So far this year, Australia has already recorded nearly 50,000 flu cases in the first three months – a 60 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Queensland alone has reported more than 10,000 cases, up 27 per cent from 2024.
Royal Australian College of GP’s Queensland Chair and Karana Downs GP Cath Hester commented on the trends and modelling.
“One reason why we may be doing better than other states is because last year, the State Government made flu vaccinations free for everyone,” she said.
“The Queensland Government did the same this year, which is a fantastic move that’ll keep us safer and healthier.”
Dr Hester urged Queenslanders not to delay getting vaccinated.
“Speak to your general practice about getting your flu shot,” she said.
“Many clinics run dedicated flu sessions to make the process quicker.”
