South Australia is experiencing an unusually late surge in influenza cases, with the state recording its highest weekly number of flu notifications so far this year.
A total of 917 cases were reported in the latest weekly period, including 118 people who were hospitalised, as health authorities warn the season may continue to intensify despite the warmer weather.
Cases have risen significantly over the past six weeks, placing further pressure on South Australia’s hospitals and emergency departments during an already busy period.
Graphic supplied
Older South Australians remain among those most at risk of severe illness, with influenza capable of causing serious complications including pneumonia, hospitalisation and, in some cases, death.
Of particular concern is vaccination coverage in some residential aged care facilities, with recent data showing rates below 10 per cent at some sites.
The State Government and SA Health are now writing to residential aged care facilities across South Australia, reminding providers of their responsibility to ensure residents are offered recommended vaccinations and encouraging them to review current coverage.
Health Minister Blair Boyer said the rising case numbers were particularly concerning for vulnerable South Australians.
“We are seeing flu cases continue to rise across the state, with older South Australians particularly vulnerable to severe illness, hospitalisation and death,” Mr Boyer said.
The renewed vaccination push comes as Adelaide also responds to a measles outbreak, with multiple cases linked to a growing cluster and contact tracing underway.
South Australia’s Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier said the later-than-usual flu season could continue despite the change in weather.
“Vaccines protect the community – the more people who are vaccinated, the safer we all are. It is not too late to vaccinate,” Professor Spurrier said.
The influenza vaccine is available free through the National Immunisation Program for eligible South Australians, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children aged six months to under five, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over, and people with certain medical conditions.
South Australians are also being encouraged to continue simple preventative measures including regularly washing their hands, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces and staying home when unwell.
Common influenza symptoms include a sudden fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, cough, sneezing and a runny nose. Children may also experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
While most people recover within about a week, influenza can lead to serious complications for vulnerable people, particularly older South Australians and those with underlying health conditions.
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