News
17 October, 2025
Flu season peaks with 80,000 cases, most unvaccinated
QUEENSLAND’S flu season has passed its peak, with case notifications and hospitalisations now trending down.
Latest Queensland Health data shows a 34 per cent drop in reported cases last week and a 30 per cent decrease in public hospital bed occupancy. So far in 2025, 79,877 influenza cases have been recorded, with 83 per cent of those infected not vaccinated. In the past week alone, 1,839 new cases were reported, while an average of 119 public hospital beds were occupied daily by flu patients.
Queensland’s free influenza vaccination program wrapped up on 30 September. Health authorities are urging anyone not yet vaccinated to speak with their GP or pharmacist, as respiratory viruses circulate year-round.
Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall said more than 1.7 million Queenslanders took part in the program.
“Vaccination remains the best defence against serious illness and hospitalisation,” Dr McDougall said.
“Thank you to everyone who participated — it helped reduce the spread and ease pressure on hospitals. While case numbers are dropping, influenza is still in the community, so please stay home if you’re unwell and continue practising good hygiene.”
She also announced a new $5 million Nasal Spray Flu Immunisation Program for children aged two to four, starting in 2026.
COVID-19 cases are also falling, with 396 infections reported last week and hospitalisations continuing to decline.
