Flu cases in Victoria are rising sharply, with numbers almost double compared to last year at this time. As of now, there have been 10,600 confirmed instances of influenza, which is 5,000 more than during the same period in 2024. Health officials anticipate that the flu season will peak in June and July, as cases continue to grow steadily.
Dr Tarun Weeramanthri, Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, emphasises that April is an ideal month for residents to receive their flu vaccinations. He highlights that it usually takes a few weeks for the body to develop protective antibodies, hence getting vaccinated now provides individuals with optimal protection during the upcoming peak season.
The vaccination is particularly important for vulnerable groups including children aged 6 months to 5 years, adults over 65, and pregnant women, all of whom are eligible for free flu shots. Additionally, the flu vaccine can be administered concurrently with other vaccinations such as the COVID-19 vaccine, RSV vaccine, and whooping cough vaccine, making it convenient for individuals to receive all necessary immunisations at once.
With the current upward trend in cases, health professionals strongly recommend that residents take action by getting vaccinated to safeguard their health and that of the community as the influenza season approaches its most intense period.