The Queensland government is pushing for more people to become vaccinated against influenza, despite 900,000 Queenslanders already rolling their sleeves up for the jab.
Latest information from the state revealed 24 people have already died from the flu in Queensland this year, with 12,000 cases of the illness officially reported.
Premier Steven Miles praised Queenslanders for the strong flu vaccination numbers.
But while 30,000 people every weekday were already taking advantage of free flu shots, cases were still on the rise, with health officials holding concerns a “significant” flu season could ramp up in winter.
“With more cool months ahead, I want to encourage anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated against the flu yet to book in to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Mr. Miles said in a statement.
Acting Chief Health Officer Dr. Catherine McDougall warned a bad flu season could be ahead given the early numbers of cases and recorded deaths.
“The high number of flu cases this year to date suggests a potentially significant flu season, which could disrupt households, schools, workplaces, and increase demand on our health services,” she said.
“I remind Queenslanders that annual flu vaccination is the best way to protect against severe disease and complications, and also to break the chain of transmission.
“It’s also a timely reminder to continue practicing good hygiene habits, such as regular handwashing and staying home when sick.”
Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said it was important to remember how serious an illness influenza was.
“Last year, Queensland saw a concerning number of flu cases, with more than 74,000, and sadly, 144 deaths were reported. Already this year, we’ve surpassed 12,000 cases and 24 deaths,” she said.
“Nearly everyone presenting to hospital with the flu last year had not been vaccinated, which put significant pressure on our emergency departments.
“Getting vaccinated ahead of the peak flu season keeps people safe and ensures our health system is there for those who need it most.
“We’re asking Queenslanders to do three key things to keep our community safe this flu season: get vaccinated for free, stay home if you’re sick, and wash your hands and practice good hygiene.”
Sixteen percent of Queenslanders are currently vaccinated against influenza.
While cases of recorded influenza cases are high, they are still lower than the recorded cases of COVID.
Queensland has recorded 24,741 cases of COVID-19 in 2024, according to the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System.
