Europe, US’s fast-tracked, deadly flu season on its way to Victoria

The flu season is set to start earlier this year and more hospitalisations loom as top doctors warn of a horror flu/Covid double whammy coming from Europe and the US.

More hospitalisations are expected during this year’s fast-tracked flu season. Picture: iStock

A fast-tracked flu season linked to higher hospital rates in Europe and America is on its way, with a top doctor urging Victorians not to leave their vaccination until it is too late.

Bupa Health Services Medical Director Dr Tony MacDermott influenza cases were expected to peak in June — two months earlier than usual — and Australia’s historically low uptake of flu vaccinations left us exposed.

“We expect this year’s flu season to be as dangerous as last year, especially in combination with new Covid-19 strains that have hit Australia already,” he said.

Victoria’s flu season is set to start earlier and result in more cases and hospitalisations than recent years. Picture: iStock

“The flu is more than a bad cold, it can be deadly, and we shouldn’t underestimate it – now is not the time for flu vaccine complacency.

“The northern hemisphere flu season just gone has provided us with a glimpse of what we may see here soon – an earlier season than previous years with more cases and more hospitalisations.”

Dr MacDermott said people should get the vaccine by the end of the next month, with Bupa commencing delivery of more than 52,000 vaccines for on-site student and employee initiatives.

“One of the easiest things you can do to protect yourself, your family and the community is to get a flu vaccine,” he said.

“This will also help take pressure off GPs and hospital emergency departments which are

already under considerable pressure.”