Australia's flu season arrives late; cases already up 27%
Flu cases in Australia jumped 27% in the two weeks to September 6.
Australians are noticing more flu cases than expected for spring, and the numbers confirm it. In the two weeks to September 6, flu cases were up 27% on the previous two weeks.
This year, cases stayed lower than usual for most of the year, but activity increased sharply from mid-August onwards. The main culprit is the H3N2 "super K" strain, the same one that caused a late surge in 2025.
This strain spreads more easily than usual, though it does not cause worse illness. New South Wales and Western Australia saw increases starting in late June, earlier than other states.
Since COVID disrupted patterns, flu seasons have become harder to predict. Before the pandemic, cases usually started rising in June or July and peaked in August.
The changed timing makes it harder for public health planning and personal preparation.
- 27% in two weeks to September 6
- Case increase
- H3N2 super K
- Main strain
- August
- Pre-pandemic peak month
- NSW and Western Australia
- Early increase states
Why it mattersA late and unpredictable flu season can catch people off guard and strain health services if the peak arrives when systems are not prepared.
AustraliaAustralians should consider whether they need a flu shot now rather than waiting; hospitals may see more demand than usual if the surge continues.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 d ago
