Geelong influenza cases: Health department data reveals FIVE infections in 2021

Geelong’s influenza numbers for 2021 have revealed the stark impact of Covid restrictions on the seasonal virus.

Restrictions triggered by Covid have helped Geelong record just a handful of influenza cases this year.

Greater Geelong has recorded just five cases of influenza so far this year, according to health department data.

Flu cases have dropped off

That number has remained stagnant for months, with no increase reported as restrictions eased.

The municipality recorded 151 cases in the same period last year in 2195 in that time in 2019.

Barwon South West public health unit director Eugene Athan said this year, seasonal flu numbers were low across the state.

“We expect this is due to social distancing and current Covid-19 restrictions combined with reduced international travel,” Prof Athan said.

“Whilst traditionally we expect to see flu cases in the colder months we may still see an

increase of flu cases with more movement and travel this year.

“Lockdowns and restrictions that limit social interactions have reduced the transmission of

influenza, as well as practices such as following hand hygiene and wearing masks.”

Prof Athan said despite low case numbers of flu in the community, anyone who was able to receive the flu vaccine was urged to get vaccinated, especially the elderly or

immunocompromised, as we may begin to see increased cases as restrictions ease.

Local GP and Western Victoria Primary Health Network clinical spokeswoman Anne Stephenson said the traditional season for influenza follows the colder weather from April to October, however, there was the potential to contract the flu at any time depending on whether the flu virus was circulating.

“There is a chance that cases may occur over the coming warmer months as people start to

travel more and the flu virus has the potential to circulate further,” Dr Stephenson said.

“We are aware that the uptake of flu vaccination has been lower than previous years, and

anyone who is vulnerable to influenza should make sure they have had their 2021 flu

vaccination.”

Dr Stephenson said it was difficult to predict what future flu seasons may be like.

“However, we know that Europe and SE Asia are experiencing a rise in respiratory viral infections with the opening up of restrictions, borders and travelling,” she said.

“This suggests Australia may be unlikely to have low flu numbers in future years.

“At this stage, the 2022 influenza vaccine will likely be available at the end of March.

“Flu symptoms can be similar to Covid-19, and as always, it is important not to be

complacent.”

Originally published as Geelong influenza cases: Health department data reveals FIVE infections in 2021