GPs to play key role as Australia prepares for uncertain flu season
05 May 2026
After the country’s deadliest flu season in recent history in 2025, where more than 1700 lives were lost and around 500,000 cases were recorded, health leaders say it is now a “wait and watch” situation.
Professor Patrick Reading from the WHO Collaborating Centre for Influenza said last year’s season was unusual, with flu activity lasting longer than expected and a different strain becoming dominant later in the year.
He said this year’s vaccines have been updated to better match the strains most likely to circulate, but it is still not possible to predict exactly what will happen.
So far in 2026, flu cases remain low, with just over 28,000 confirmed cases by the end of April.
However, vaccination rates remain a concern, especially among younger people. Children aged 5–15 and adults aged 15–50 have some of the lowest uptake.
Professor Kristine Macartney said many people still underestimate how serious influenza can be, noting that actual case numbers are likely much higher than reported.
She said the introduction of an intranasal flu vaccine for children in Australia could help improve vaccination rates, as it has done in countries like the UK.
Experts say GPs will play a critical role this season in encouraging vaccination and addressing concerns from patients.
They are being urged to take time during consultations to answer questions, correct misinformation, and help patients make informed decisions about vaccination.
With uncertainty around how the season will unfold, improving vaccine uptake remains one of the most important steps to reduce serious illness and pressure on the health system.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP