SA Influenza, whooping cough and RSV case numbers surge past last year’s numbers

A barrage of infectious diseases is sweeping through South Australia with health officials imploring the sick to stay home.

A triple whammy of infectious diseases is sweeping South Australia just as the allergy season hits.

SA Health data show influenza, whooping cough and RSV all on the march, spiralling past case numbers at the same time last year.

Flu cases have surged to 20,714 confirmed cases, well past the 16,698 cases recorded at the same time last year which went on to reach a total of 22,405 cases.

Whooping cough is running at ten times the rate seen last year.

Dr Chris Lease, SA Health is urging caution to prevent the spread of infectious diseases over SA. Picture Brad Crouch

The dangerous disease has been recorded in 714 people so far this year, compared to 63 at the same time last year which had a year-long total of 142 cases.

Whooping cough — pertussis — tends to be a cyclic infection and parents have been urged to have their children vaccinated against it as it can be severe and even life threatening in babies and young children.

The disease nicknamed “the 100 day cough” is spread when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes small droplets containing infectious agents which may be breathed in by those nearby.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases have jumped to 11,304 compared to 10,812 this time last year which went on to a total of 12,216.

Health officials says people should stay home when sick.

Acting chief public health officer, Dr Chris Lease urged caution to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

“Maintaining good respiratory hygiene is important in preventing the spread of disease,” he said.

“Simple things like covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, disposing of used tissues, and washing your hands can help reduce the spread of infection.

“You should consider whether you can stay at home from work or school if you are sick, to prevent the spread of illness.

“Staying up to date with vaccinations is the best protection against infectious diseases, as many people do not realise that immunity to some diseases can wane over time.

“If you are unsure of your immunisation status, speak to your doctor.”

Dr Lease noted this time of year also sees a surge in allergic reactions.

“The warmer weather in spring brings an increase in pollen that can trigger allergic reactions like hay fever and asthma,” he said.

“Hay fever is common in Australia with one in five Australians affected, and four out of five people with asthma also have hay fever.

“If you suffer from asthma, or hay fever symptoms, speak to your doctor about a plan to help prevent severe reactions.”