Health officials issue warnings for influenza in Queensland and rheumatic heart disease in Fiji

Health authorities in Queensland and Fiji are issuing warnings regarding significant disease concerns. In Queensland, Chief Health Officer Dr. Marianne Gale reported a spike in influenza cases, reaching 20,876 year-to-date. Weekly cases rose from 1,093 in early August to 2,930 by late August, marking the highest weekly count this year. Dr. Gale attributed the unusual season and late peak to a second wave of the ‘Super-K’ strain from Europe and changing population immunity. Notably, unvaccinated patients have accounted for 84 per cent of hospitalizations since March 1. Residents are encouraged to utilize the state’s free vaccination program before it concludes on September 30.

In Fiji, Minister for Women and Children Sashi Kiran is urging parents and caregivers to monitor children for symptoms of rheumatic heart disease (RHD), which affects an estimated one in 50 schoolchildren. RHD often begins with deceptively simple symptoms, such as a sore throat or skin sores caused by strep bacteria. If left untreated, the immune system may attack the heart valves. Kiran emphasized that early detection through constant vigilance is critical to preventing serious heart damage and reducing the long-term burden on households.