Australia: Elevated seasonal influenza activity continues through July /update 1

Event

Australian authorities continue to report high seasonal influenza activity with nearly 100,000 additional cases reported June 6-July 3, bringing the total confirmed cases for the year to 187,431. This caseload is compared to 388 confirmed influenza cases reported over a similar period in 2021 and is exceeding the five-year reported average. The highest number of cases have occurred in New South Wales (100,851) and Victoria (33,342); however, the risk of infection is currently highest in the Northern Territory (1,855 cases per 100,000 population). This case count represents the most complete data available as of July 15.

Context

Seasonal influenza activity typically peaks in Australia's colder months, usually June-October. Unusually low seasonal influenza activity was reported during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, as stringent health precautions implemented to decrease the spread of COVID-19 likely also hampered the spread of influenza.

Seasonal influenza is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. Symptoms typically appear two days after exposure but can develop up to 4 days after exposure. Typical symptoms are nondescript, including fever (though not in all cases), cough, congestion, aches, and fatigue. The disease occurs in all age groups but is particularly severe in the elderly or persons with high-risk medical conditions. Influenza vaccinations are recommended yearly since the influenza virus undergoes frequent changes.

Advice

Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against seasonal influenza. Practice basic health precautions. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in affected areas.