Australia is facing an unusually early and potentially severe flu season, prompting strong recommendations from healthcare experts for early vaccination. Doctors across the country are warning that the influenza virus is already circulating rapidly, with cases surging significantly higher than this time last year. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian Medical Association are urging the public—especially vulnerable populations—to receive their flu shots now, before the virus reaches its expected peak in the coming winter months.
Alarming Rise in Early Flu Cases
Between January and March 2025, Australia recorded over 48,000 confirmed cases of influenza, a figure 59 per cent higher than the same period in 2024. RACGP president Dr Michael Wright said this spike indicates that the flu season may arrive and peak much earlier than usual.
“We are definitely telling people that the flu is circulating in the community,” said Dr Wright. “Now is the time to get your vaccine, particularly if you’re a vulnerable person.”
READ MORE: Better Hearing and Vision Linked to Stronger Cognitive Health in Older Adults
Dr Wright stressed that early immunisation is critical in reducing the risk of hospitalisation and serious illness from the flu. “A flu vaccine remains effective for up to five months. Getting vaccinated now will provide protection throughout the peak flu season, which typically occurs around July or August,” he added.
Lessons from the Northern Hemisphere
The urgency for early vaccination is further reinforced by recent trends observed in the Northern Hemisphere. Countries like the United Kingdom and the United States experienced severe influenza seasons during their respective winters, with the US enduring its most significant flu outbreak since the 2009 swine flu pandemic. Hospitals in some parts of the UK were overwhelmed by patient volumes during the winter peak.
Louise Manning, president of the Rural Doctors Association of Victoria, said the patterns seen overseas are cause for concern in Australia. “They had unprecedented numbers of flu presentations. I’m quite concerned as to what we might see as the weather gets cooler and more viruses begin to spread around,” she said.
She noted that the flu strains observed in the Northern Hemisphere often travel to the Southern Hemisphere, affecting its winter flu season. This global transmission pattern means Australia is likely to face a similar uptick in cases and hospitalisations unless preventive measures are taken swiftly.
Early Outbreaks in Australian Schools
Communities across Australia are already beginning to feel the impact of the early flu activity. Dr Manning reported that a primary school in central Victoria recently experienced a widespread outbreak of influenza B, with nearly the entire student body falling ill.
“This happened about six weeks ago,” she said. “Given the severity of symptoms and the number of hospitalisations we’ve seen in the northern hemisphere, we’re quite concerned that we’ll have a similar picture here.”
This type of school-based transmission is particularly troubling because it suggests widespread community circulation, even before the traditional flu season begins.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The RACGP is encouraging all Australians to consider flu vaccination, but it is especially crucial for individuals in high-risk groups. Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), free flu vaccines are available to:
- People aged 65 and over
- Individuals with chronic health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Children aged six months to under five years
Dr Wright added that some people, particularly young children and immunocompromised individuals, may also benefit from a booster dose later in the season, though double dosing is not routinely recommended.
“We’re seeing more severe symptoms in some groups, and hospitalisations have the potential to increase if people don’t take preventive action,” he said.
Importance of Timely Vaccination
Experts emphasise that April is the ideal time for Australians to get their flu shot. The goal is to ensure that immunity builds up well before the peak season arrives, which this year may come earlier than usual.
“You want your immunity at full strength when the flu is most active,” said Dr Wright. “Delaying vaccination increases your risk, especially given how early the virus appears to be circulating this year.”
According to national statistics, more than 4,000 people were hospitalised with influenza in 2024, and health authorities are concerned that number could rise in 2025 if the public does not heed early warnings.
Coordination with COVID-19 Protection
Healthcare providers are also reminding the public that flu vaccines can be safely administered alongside COVID-19 booster shots. With both viruses potentially circulating in the community, dual protection is essential.
“Co-administration is perfectly safe and efficient,” said Dr Manning. “It’s a simple and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones heading into winter.”
Regional Disparities and Challenges
One challenge health officials are navigating is ensuring vaccine access in rural and remote communities, where healthcare services can be limited. The Rural Doctors Association is working closely with local clinics and state health departments to ensure timely delivery and administration of vaccines.
“Vaccination logistics are always more complex in remote areas,” said Dr Manning. “We want to make sure no community is left behind, especially given the early indicators of a tough flu season.”
Preparing the Healthcare System
Hospitals and clinics are also bracing for the possibility of increased flu-related admissions. With healthcare resources already stretched due to the ongoing management of COVID-19 and other illnesses, officials are urging individuals to take flu prevention seriously to avoid overwhelming medical facilities.
“We want to avoid unnecessary hospitalisations and maintain capacity for all patients, whether they’re suffering from flu, COVID, or any other condition,” said Dr Wright.
He also advised patients to consult their GPs about flu symptoms early and to use telehealth services when available to reduce the risk of spreading illness in clinics and waiting rooms.
Final Word: Act Now
With influenza cases already rising sharply and international data pointing to a severe season ahead, the message from Australia’s top doctors is clear: act now.
“This is a crucial window,” said Dr Wright. “If we can get ahead of the virus, we can save lives and ease the burden on our health system. Don’t wait—book your flu shot today.”
For further information about free vaccines and how to book an appointment, visit the Department of Health’s website or contact your local GP clinic.
