Later

Than Expected

Australia’s 2024 winter fu season lasted longer and peaked later than last year, with new data from the National Notifable Disease Surveillance System (NNDSS) revealing over 316,000 respiratory illness cases nationwide during June and July. This contrasts with 2023, when the fu season peaked in May with 220,000 cases and steadily declined.

Dr. Anju Aggarwal, Deputy Chair of the Australian Royal College of General Practitioners, attributes the prolonged season to a mix of respiratory illnesses, including infuenza, whooping cough, RSV, and COVID-19, which have been collectively termed ‘fu-monia.’

“It starts with one illness, compromises your immune system, and then others take over,” says Dr. Aggarwal. “People get a little better, then worse again.”

Dr. Aggarwal has seen a rise in more serious illnesses, such as pneumonia, particularly among children aged 5 to 15, this season. She also notes that COVID-19 cases peaked later this year, contributing to the extended fu season. Vaccine fatigue post-pandemic may be playing a role, with fewer people, especially children, receiving fu vaccines. Data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance shows a 12.2% decrease in infuenza vaccinations nationwide compared to last year.

For those experiencing severe symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, Dr. Aggarwal advises seeking medical advice. However, for mild symptoms, she suggests symptom-based treatments, staying hydrated, and taking preventive measures like handwashing and mask-wearing.

Since July, respiratory illness cases have signifcantly dropped across Australia, with just 2,330 cases recorded in August, indicating a likely end to the extended fu season.