Influenza cases in the Mid West have already surpassed last year’s total, with local health professionals urging residents to take precautions and get the flu shot amid a sharp spike in respiratory illnesses.
As of July 23, 326 influenza cases have been recorded in the Mid West so far this year, eclipsing the 314 cases reported in 2024.
Alarmingly, 224 of those have been reported in just the past three months, up from 136 in the same period last year.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections are also climbing, with 151 cases recorded so far this year, well on their way to surpassing the 217 cases recorded in 2024.
Geoff Vivian The Geraldton Guardian Credit: Geoff Vivian/The Geraldton Guardian
“Lots of presentations for viral infections, upper respiratory tract infections and influenza-type symptoms presented to both pharmacies and so we’ve definitely seen the effect of that.”
Despite free flu shots being available through the National Immunisation Program, Mr Buise said the number of people coming in for the vaccine appeared to be lagging.
“Unfortunately, with vaccination rates, I don’t think we’re achieving what we should be,” he said.
“I’m not sure whether it’s vaccine fatigue or not, but we’ve seen lower rates of flu vaccines and an increased rate of presentations with flu-like symptoms.”
With the season far from over, Midwest GP Network chair Richard Taylor urged those feeling unwell to look after themselves and the community.
“It is really important to stay home if you’re unwell as airborne transmission of these very infectious viruses is how they spread.
“The key message is please stay home; your work colleagues will thank you for it. For those vulnerable people, it really is important if you’re unwell to stay home.”
Mr Buise encouraged those who have not had their flu jab yet to get it done.
“Getting in now and having your flu vaccine is better than not at all,” he said. “It’s providing protection for (your) family and for our aged community as well.”
https://thewest.com.au/news/geraldton-guardian/mid-west-flu-cases-surge-to-326-surpassing-2024-total-amid-spike-in-respiratory-illness-and-low-vax-rates-c-19446648
