Queensland respiratory infection update – 26 September 2025
26 Sep 2025
Last week, influenza cases in Queensland dropped by 27 per cent, but the virus remains a significant risk, with 2,706 new cases reported. Influenza activity is still high across the state, particularly among school-aged children (5–17 years) in Central Queensland.
So far in 2025, 77,956 flu cases have been recorded, with 84 per cent of cases in unvaccinated people. On average, 169 public hospital beds were occupied daily by flu patients last week, a 19 per cent decrease from the previous week. Of those hospitalised this year, 78 per cent were not vaccinated. There have been 194 flu-related deaths to date, slightly higher than last year.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) notifications are decreasing, with 718 cases last week compared to 905 the week prior. This year, 28,302 cases have been reported, including 7,153 children under 2 years. Hospitalisations remain significant, with an average of 54 beds occupied daily by RSV patients last week. Free RSV immunisation is available year-round for vulnerable infants and for pregnant women between 28 and 36 weeks to protect their babies.
COVID-19 cases are also declining, with 487 cases reported last week. To date, 33,593 cases have been recorded in 2025. Hospitalisations total 6,253, with 92 per cent not up to date with vaccination. On average, 45 hospital beds were occupied daily by COVID-19 patients last week.
Vaccination remains the best defence:
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Flu: Free for all Queensland residents aged 6 months and older.
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RSV: Free for eligible infants, young children, and pregnant women (28–36 weeks).
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COVID-19: Boosters recommended based on age and risk; can be given with flu vaccine.
Queenslanders are encouraged to protect themselves and their families and to stay informed about the ongoing respiratory virus season.
For weekly updates, visit the Queensland Health Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance website.
For more information on vaccinations: Queensland Health and Australian Government health websites.
Source: Queensland Health
