Queensland reports 33% weekly increase in influenza cases

Health authorities in Queensland, Australia, have reported a 33% weekly increase in influenza cases for the period ending August 15, 2026. During this week, 1,449 new cases were identified, up from 1,093 the previous week.

Since the beginning of the year, total cases have reached 15,560. While this overall figure is 73% lower than the same period last year, infectious disease specialist Matteo Bassetti warns that current strains could be more aggressive. He noted that despite lower total circulation, hospital pressure in certain provinces has increased compared to last year.

Influenza A remains the primary driver with 13,736 cases, while Influenza B accounts for 1,612. Hospitalizations have affected 1,443 patients, nearly half of whom are aged 65 or older. Children under two remain highly vulnerable, representing over 5,200 cases and approximately one-third of the 2,578 total hospitalizations.