News
11 August, 2024
Flu Hospitalisations Surge Among Queensland Children Under Five
The number of young Queensland children hospitalised with the flu has doubled in the past week, prompting urgent calls for vaccination as the peak of flu season approaches.
The number of young Queensland children hospitalised with the flu has doubled in the past week, prompting urgent calls for vaccination as the peak of flu season approaches.
As of 10 August, 364 people were hospitalised with flu across the state, an increase from 318 the previous week. Particularly concerning is the surge in cases among children under five, with hospitalisations jumping from 13 last week to 28 this week.
Despite the risks, less than 15% of children admitted to hospital with influenza have been vaccinated.
Queensland remains the only state in Australia offering free flu vaccinations to all residents, a program now in its second year, costing approximately $47 million to date.
Premier Steven Miles said the rising numbers were alarming.
“The number of some of our youngest Queenslanders presenting to hospital with the flu is obviously very concerning," he said.
“It is absolutely critical that everyone who can gets their flu shot, to help protect the most vulnerable people in our community.
“That’s why we have made the flu vaccine free, so cost isn’t a barrier to staying safe and healthy.”
Health Minister Shannon Fentiman urged parents to act quickly.
“This doubling of hospitalisations is concerning for our smallest Queenslanders, and I am asking parents across the state: please vaccinate yourself and your kids," she said.
