Health experts are raising alarms over an increase in various illnesses as the Christmas season approaches. A new mutant strain of influenza, along with mosquito-borne viruses and gastrointestinal infections, poses significant health risks for the public during this festive period.
The rise in influenza cases is particularly concerning, with over 95,000 cases reported in Queensland this year, marking the highest total in a decade. This figure represents a 21 percent increase compared to the same time last year. The states of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia are experiencing unusually high flu infection rates, largely driven by a new strain of the influenza A H3N2 virus known as subclade K.
According to Professor Paul Griffin, Director of Infectious Diseases at Mater Health, the emergence of subclade K is particularly troubling. This strain appeared after the annual influenza vaccine was developed, meaning individuals previously infected or vaccinated may not have adequate immunity. “Because [the strain has] changed, it means that past infection doesn’t help [reduce severity or provide much immunity] either,” he explained.
Low vaccination rates in Queensland exacerbate the situation. Despite a campaign costing $675,000 to provide free vaccinations, the state recorded the lowest influenza vaccination rates in Australia earlier this year. During the peak of the flu season, an average of 227 public hospital beds were occupied by flu patients, nearly half of whom were over the age of 65.
Recent data indicates that around 66 people are currently hospitalized due to influenza. “That’s a significant number of beds occupied, and we know that number would be less if our vaccine rates were higher,” Griffin stated. Last week, from December 8-14, nearly 1,700 cases of flu were recorded, with the highest rates among children under 18, followed by adults aged over 75.
In addition to influenza, Queensland Health has warned about the risks posed by mosquito-borne viruses such as the Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). The current wet and warm weather, coupled with increased outdoor activities, heightens the risk of these infections. Earlier this year, two fatalities in Queensland were linked to JEV, which is a rare but serious illness. In total, more than 650 cases of Ross River virus and over 160 cases of Barmah Forest virus have been reported this year.
The Communicable Diseases Branch executive director, Dr. Heidi Carroll, emphasized the importance of taking protective measures against mosquito bites. “If you don’t get bitten, you can’t get infected,” she said, highlighting the potential seriousness of some mosquito-borne viruses.
Other health concerns include cryptosporidiosis, a gastrointestinal illness often contracted by ingesting contaminated water, and measles, which has seen multiple outbreaks across Queensland this year. Cases of cryptosporidiosis are most prevalent among children up to nine years old and adults aged 30-39. So far in 2024, more than 6,100 cases have been recorded in Queensland, significantly higher than in other regions of Australia.
Symptoms of cryptosporidiosis include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and loss of appetite. Dr. Carroll advised individuals who are infected to avoid swimming while symptomatic and for two weeks after symptoms have resolved to prevent further spread.
A measles alert remains active for north Brisbane, following reports of an infectious case that visited the Caboolture Hospital Emergency Department in late November.
As the holiday season approaches, health officials stress the importance of vigilance and preventive measures to ensure a safe and healthy celebration for all.
