Health Experts Warn of Severe Flu Season in Australia, Urge Vaccination

Health experts in Australia are sounding the alarm about the upcoming 2024 flu season, which they predict will be particularly severe. The latest respiratory surveillance report in New South Wales shows a 16% increase in flu cases compared to the same time last year, with over 4,700 people diagnosed with influenza in the past four weeks alone. NSW hospitals have also seen a surge in admissions, with 480 people hospitalized for influenza-like illness between January 6 and April 2024.

The Chief Health Officer has expressed particular concern for vulnerable populations, including young children aged 6 months to 5 years, the elderly, Aboriginal people, pregnant women, and those with serious health conditions. These high-risk groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine from their local GP or pharmacist. Experts stress that vaccination is the best defense against severe illness, especially with COVID-19 still circulating.

Why this matters: The combination of a severe flu season and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could put significant strain on Australia's healthcare system. Widespread vaccination is vital to protect vulnerable populations and prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has welcomed the Albanese Government's expanded funding for the National Immunisation Program Vaccination in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) program, which will allow pharmacists to deliver vaccines to vulnerable populations in aged care and disability homes. PSA CEO Mark Kinsela said, "This will improve access to vaccination services, and adequate pharmacist remuneration is critical to ensuring these essential services can be delivered sustainably."

The National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) is providing expert evidence and advice on vaccine-preventable diseases and immunization to inform policy and planning in Australia. The NCIRS Social Science Unit has also launched the Vaccination Insights project to investigate the drivers of under-vaccination in Australian children.

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care is hosting a webinar on May 3, 2024, to inform vaccination providers about the upcoming flu season and respiratory illnesses in Australia. The webinar will cover topics such as the severity of the 2024 flu season, the importance of vaccination, and updates on respiratory illness surveillance and prevention measures.

The Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network is urging the community to get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible. In addition to vaccination, practicing healthy habits like hand washing, covering coughs, and staying home when sick can help reduce the spread of illness. Health authorities emphasize the importance of being proactive to keep the region safe and healthy this winter, with one in three people expected to get a cold or influenza.

Key Takeaways

• Australia predicts a severe 2024 flu season, with 16% more cases than last year.
• Vulnerable groups like children, elderly, and those with health conditions are urged to get free flu shots.
• Widespread vaccination is vital to prevent healthcare system strain from flu and ongoing COVID-19.
• Expanded funding for pharmacists to deliver vaccines in aged care and disability homes.
• Authorities emphasize vaccination, hygiene, and staying home when sick to reduce illness spread.