Queensland Health has issued a health warning urging residents to stay home when unwell and maintain good hygiene practices during the festive season. This comes in response to an unusual rise in influenza cases across the state during summer.
According to the latest data from Queensland Health, as of December 14, more than 95,000 flu cases have been recorded this year, marking a 21 percent increase compared to the same period last year. In the week from December 8 to 14 alone, 1,690 new cases were reported, following 1,973 cases the previous week.
Unseasonal Flu Spike Raises Concerns
Dr. Heidi Carroll, Executive Director of Queensland Health’s Communicable Diseases Branch, highlighted that flu cases and hospitalizations remain higher than expected for this time of year. “While flu case numbers and hospitalizations remain well below the winter peak, the recent summertime increase in cases is unusual,” Dr. Carroll stated.
Health authorities are encouraging Queenslanders who have not yet received the influenza vaccine this year to get immunized. The vaccine is available through general practices, community pharmacies, community immunization clinics, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
The flu season has particularly affected children and the elderly. Of the cases recorded this year, 10,087 (11 percent) were children under five, while 16,176 (17 percent) were people aged 65 and over. A total of 9,187 people have been hospitalized with influenza, with 46 percent of those aged 65 and over.
As of December 14, Queensland has recorded 95,520 flu cases in 2025, with 82 percent of confirmed cases occurring in people who were not vaccinated.
Comparative Analysis and Historical Context
The 2025 influenza season has been marked by a prolonged peak and a slower decline in case numbers compared to 2023 and 2024. Health officials attribute this to year-to-year variability influenced by circulating virus strains, environmental and behavioral factors such as increased social gatherings, and population immunity shaped by previous infections and vaccine uptake.
Historically, flu seasons have shown variability, often influenced by the strains in circulation and public health responses. The current unseasonal surge highlights the importance of vaccination and public health measures in controlling the spread of infectious diseases.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Experts recommend that Queenslanders planning to travel overseas consult with their healthcare providers about protective measures while traveling. The emphasis remains on vaccination as a critical tool in preventing severe illness and protecting vulnerable populations.
There have been 289 flu-related deaths recorded between January 1 and December 14, 2025, compared with 198 deaths during the same period last year.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Future Seasons
The current situation underscores the need for ongoing public health vigilance and the importance of vaccination campaigns. As the festive season continues, residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities.
Queensland Health continues to monitor the situation closely and advises residents to stay informed through official channels. The unexpected rise in flu cases serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of infectious diseases and the critical role of public health measures in safeguarding community health.
