The Influenza Specialist Group (ISG) has warned that this year’s flu season is shaping up to be the worst in a number of years, with a particularly virulent strain of the disease seeing the number of people contracting influenza double compared to the same time last year.

 

The ISG has recorded some 5,000 cases of the H3N2 and Type B strains, with experts warning the worst is yet to come as thousands of cases go undiagnosed.

 

Queensland has recorded the biggest number of cases, with 2,536 diagnosed cases, with New South Wales coming in second with 2,391. Hospital admissions for flu-like illnesses are steadily rising and emergency department visits are higher in most states than at this time last year.

 

Influenza Specialist Group Chair Dr Alan Hampson said the fact that the H3N2 and the Type B strains hadn’t been prominent in the community for the past few years could increase this season’s severity.

 

“When we see high levels of H3N2, which is the predominant strain this season, there is significant impact, especially in high risk groups. Typically, we can expect to see more deaths and hospital admissions.

 

“Given the prospect of it being a severe flu season, it’s important people protect themselves by regularly washing their hands, avoiding crowds, ensuring frequently touched household surfaces are kept clean, as well as practicing good flu etiquette by covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when they sneeze or cough,” he said.

 

Dr Hampson stressed that if people know they or someone else is infected, that they should minimise contact with them.

 

“If you’re nursing a sick family member, avoid being in close proximity as much as possible and be mindful of hand hygiene,’ he said.

 

And if you do experience flu symptoms including fever, body aches and pains, fatigue, cough and headache, Dr Hampson recommends visiting your GP for antiviral medications as soon as possible.

 

“People who have contracted the flu, particularly the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, should visit their doctor because antivirals can be beneficial if taken within 48 hours of noticing symptoms.