New research shows many Australians continue to remain complacent about the potential seriousness of the common flu, despite the significantly higher cases already reported this year compared to last year.
According to the latest data from the Department of Health, there have been almost 14,500 confirmed flu cases already in 2023. In 2022, this volume of confirmed cases wasn’t seen until early May.
The Australian Attitudes to Influenza Index, commissioned by Australian vaccine company CSL Seqirus, asked 1,017 adults aged 18 years and over about their attitudes to flu. The results showed that one third of adults (33%) say that flu is only somewhat serious (while it can get people very sick and put in hospital, they cannot die from it), with 14% saying it’s not very, or not at all, serious.
There are also clear generational gaps in recognition of the seriousness of flu with only 20% of 18 to 24-year-olds indicating flu is very serious, compared with nearly 60% of those 65 years and older.
In 2022, more than 50% (126,988) of confirmed flu cases were in younger populations (24 years and younger) 4 and less than 10% (16,819) of notifications occurred in people aged over 655.
Professor Robert Booy, a leading paediatrician and infectious disease expert, says the survey results are concerning given that flu circulation is returning to pre-pandemic levels.
“Underestimating the potential seriousness of flu may place a significant burden on the public health system,” said Professor Booy.
“People need to remember that we’ve had some bad flu seasons in Australia, with modelling data from 2010-2019 estimating that we averaged nearly 2,800 annual deaths related to flu, with more than 6,400 estimated deaths in 2017 and over 5,200 in 2019.
“Last year, we also saw younger populations make up a higher proportion of notifications compared to previous years, so it’s important we have high vaccination rates across all age groups.
“We’re already seeing higher rates of influenza compared to this time last year. It is almost impossible to predict when the flu season will peak, so it’s important to talk to your GP or pharmacist now about your choices for prevention. It’s also important to maintain regular hand washing, staying at home if you’re feeling unwell, and coughing or sneezing into your elbow if you don’t have a tissue to help minimise the spread of flu.”
The research also gave insight into Australian attitudes towards flu vaccination, with 58% of Australians unaware of what prevention options are available, and nearly 1-in-2 adults (46%) wanting their GP or pharmacist to discuss these options so they can make a more informed choice about their health this flu season.
Dr Zac Turner is a GP with a focus on preventative health and is part of a campaign to raise awareness of the disease. He’s urging all Australians to stay vigilant about the flu and to talk to their GP or pharmacist about the best ways to protect themselves.
“In my experience, there is a lack of awareness around the potential severity of flu, and the difference between the flu and a common cold. While many people have fairly mild flu symptoms, for some it can be a very serious disease.”
“Every year, hospitals receive more admissions for flu than they should as the severity of this disease is largely preventable. Even those who don’t get significant complications, can still experience symptoms lasting up to a week. This means people may miss out on work, social events, holidays and other commitments,” said Dr Turner.
Dr Turner said it was important for Australians to know that they have options when it comes to protecting themselves from the flu.
“I strongly encourage Australians to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about flu and their prevention options, including vaccination, which can help people understand which option is right for them. Having this conversation will help people understand the best way to protect themselves and others in their family or community,” he said.
Influenza vaccinations are available in most pharmacies from this week for people not eligible for free vaccines under the National Immunisation Program.
