Surge in flu cases continues
A SURGE in flu cases in the region has persisted, as Barwon Health prepares for a worse than usual season.
There have been 279 cases of the flu recorded in City of Greater Geelong between January 1 and April 10, up from 56 in the same period last year, new Health Department data reveals.
Barwon Health Department of Infectious Disease director Eugene Athan said people should contact their GP about immunisation.
Prof Athan said some clinics were already offering vaccinations, while others were expected to have stock arrive later this month.
Associate Professor Deb Friedman, a senior lecturer in Deakin’s Medical School who works in Barwon Health’s Department of Infectious Diseases, said there had already been more than 5000 reported flu cases in Victoria so far this year.
She said the uncharacteristically large number — three times the usual figures — could signal a tough winter on its way.
“Typically there are about 11,000 to 15,000 flu cases reported in Victoria per year, although in 2017 — which was a particularly bad year — there were 48,000 cases,” she said.
“It is very difficult to predict at this early stage how bad the 2019 season will be. But what is certain is that the season has started very early this year.”
The flu season usually runs from April to October over the colder months.
Associate Professor Friedman said the particular strain — or strains — of flu circulating during this period was the major predictor of a severe flu season or flu pandemic.
“A new strain to which the community has poor immunity will cause a severe season with more cases,” she said.
Associate Professor Friedman said there were three important ways to protect yourself from the virus.
“The three best ways are annual vaccination, separating oneself by more than one metre from sick people, and good hand hygiene,” she said yesterday.
“Washing hands is crucial, as we spread flu either by inhaling infectious droplets when a person coughs or sneezes, or via our hands touching surfaces or other hands which may transmit flu.”