Wake up call as Darling Downs records sharp spike in flu cases
Health professionals are warning Australians of a significant spike in flu cases and it is only the start of the flu season.
Toowoomba
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The Darling Downs is experiencing an avalanche of flu cases compared to previous years, and across the country there have been over 80,000 cases reported before winter has even hit.
The Darling Downs has recorded 31% more cases than the same time last year and the flu season is only just beginning with the season usually running from May to September.
Southwest QLD Pharmacy Guild representative and pharmacist Lucy Walker said she has recently seen the impacts of the spike in cases across the region.
“With numbers this high, the concern is that, without higher rates of vaccination, they will increase quite a bit,” he said.
“It concerns me for later in the season.
“The flu at the moment has really been knocking people around with really bad fevers, aches, pains, and horrible sore throats.”
She said they have been seeing an increase in vaccine hesitancy.
“I think not as many people are getting vaccinated against things,” she said.
“The joy is now there’s easy access to the vaccine.”
Ms Walker said there has been more than 1800 recorded flu hospitalisation in Queensland this year.
“That really does show how vaccination can help ease the pressure on the health system,” she said.
Infectious Disease Physician at Mater Health Paul Griffin said this should be a wake up call across the country.
“We’re dealing with an early wave of significantly infectious virus diseases,” he said.
“With flu, RSV, and COVID-19 circulating at the same time, early detection means targeted action. It reduces transmission, eases the burden on healthcare services, and ultimately saves lives.
“Early testing is not just a personal benefit, but a broader public health strategy.”
Queenslanders are being urged to book a free flu vaccine through their local pharmacies.
Queensland Pharmacy Guild President Chris Owen said vaccinations are essential in easing the pressure on the health system.
“Getting vaccinated doesn’t just protect you. It helps protect those more vulnerable, like our elderly and our youngest children, who are more likely to get seriously ill from influenza,” he said.
“Even though the flu is already spreading through the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.
You can book in a free flu vaccination through your local pharmacy or online at findapharmacy.com.au.
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