‎Experts warn of triple virus surge in winter 2025: COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases rising sharply

‎Australia is bracing for a harsh winter viral season as health experts sound the alarm over an early and aggressive surge of three major respiratory illnesses: COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The warning comes amid a steep rise in flu cases and the continued spread of a highly infectious COVID-19 variant, LP.8.1.

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Triple virus surge hits Australia: COVID-19, flu & RSV cases spike. Experts urge vaccination before winter peaks. Act now for protection.

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‎More than 80,000 flu infections have been confirmed nationwide this year up to May 22—representing a more than 50% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The data, sourced from the Australian Government’s national flu dashboard, shows New South Wales leading with over 31,000 cases, followed by Queensland and Victoria.

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‎“We’re dealing with an early wave of significantly infectious virus diseases,” said infectious diseases expert Professor Paul Griffin. “When one person brings something home, it can sweep through the whole household in days.”

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‎The concurrent rise in COVID-19 cases is linked to the Omicron subvariant LP.8.1, which was responsible for 60% of UK infections earlier this year. Though not more severe, its high transmissibility has health authorities worried.

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‎Professor Catherine Bennett, an epidemiologist at Deakin University, stressed that vaccination remains the most effective line of defense.

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‎“Any variant can be a real problem for vulnerable individuals,” she said. “People aged over 65 or with underlying health conditions should get their pre-winter dose now. It takes two weeks to build immunity, and timing is critical.”

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‎According to Bennett, a combination of waning immunity, indoor winter gatherings, and reduced booster uptake are setting the stage for a perfect storm. She cautioned against waiting until case numbers spike: “Getting vaccinated in May ensures you’re protected when cases rise in June and July.”

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‎In 2024, flu and COVID vaccination rates dropped by nearly 6% across all Australian states and territories. Both vaccines are free, including for those without Medicare. Experts encourage Australians to book appointments through the Healthdirect service finder.

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‎Professor Griffin also emphasized the importance of early detection and household containment, noting that infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions face the highest risk of complications such as pneumonia and hospitalisation.

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‎“Rapid antigen testing and early symptom recognition—fever, fatigue, wheezing, or breathing difficulty—allow families to take swift action. Early testing is not just a personal health decision, but a broader public health strategy,” he said.

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‎With winter approaching fast, public health officials are urging all Australians to get vaccinated before the end of May to prevent hospital surges and protect the most vulnerable.

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‎For more information or to book your free COVID-19 or flu vaccine, visit Healthdirect.gov.au.