Queensland’s death toll rising, cases set to increase again but no new jab advice

Queensland has seen a significant rise in Covid-19 deaths over the past month as the state grapples with yet another major wave that is expected to worsen in coming weeks.

Queensland has seen a more than 12 per cent rise in Covid-19 deaths over the past month, as the state grapples with yet another major wave that is predicted to worsen in coming weeks and has no end in sight.

The state reported an increase of 199 Covid-19 fatalities in June compared to 177 in May when the BA. 4 and BA. 5 Omicron sub variants first emerged, bringing the overall pandemic death toll to 1248.

But despite the rising death toll, Queensland Health has maintained relaxed advice on getting a third or fourth jab, with a spokesperson saying boosters were only “strongly encouraged” and mainly for people aged over 65 or who are immunocompromised.

It comes as Health Minister Yvette D’Ath recently announced huge changes relating to mandatory vaccinations which kicked in today.

“We expect the BA. 4 and BA. 5 sub variants to become dominant, which will add stress on hospitals due to a rise in presentations,” the Queensland Health spokesperson said.

“This virus will continue to mutate so it is important people remain vigilant and responsive by staying home when sick, washing their hands regularly, keeping their distance from others where possible and wearing a face mask when they can’t.

Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard

“We strongly encourage Queenslanders to remain up to date with their boosters, particularly those over 65 years of age and those with impaired immunity.”

Current ATAGI advice recommends those aged 65 and over, aged care residents and people aged 16 and over who are severely immunocompromised, receive a fourth booster jab four months after their initial booster or third vaccine dose.

Others aged 16 and over are recommended to get just one booster three or more months after their initial two jabs.

The state recorded 5286 new Covid-19 cases and 10 deaths yesterday, with Queensland Health confirming case numbers were expected to keep rising in coming weeks.

Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard admitted Covid-19 waves could continue for years, but insisted they would eventually become “less and less”.

“We’ve known with those previous (influenza) pandemics that a series of waves follows on for some period of time after that initial wave. But as time goes by each wave gets less and less,” he said.

“So the fact that we’re having a secondary wave now was always expected, or was always expected we’d have it at some time. It’s likely to be less than the last one and as time goes by that is likely to be what happens. And it may take a period of years.”