Close Menu
    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    • Contact Us
    • About Us
    • Write For Us
    • Guest Post
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Service
    Metapress
    • News
    • Technology
    • Business
    • Entertainment
    • Science / Health
    • Travel
    Metapress

     Winter Brings a Wave of Respiratory Illnesses Across Australia

    Lakisha DavisBy Lakisha DavisOctober 6, 2025Updated:October 6, 2025
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
     Winter Brings a Wave of Respiratory Illnesses Across Australia
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email

    As temperatures drop, respiratory viruses are on the rise. If you’ve recently battled a sore throat, runny nose, persistent cough, or even fever—you’re far from alone. Hospitals and aged care facilities nationwide are feeling the strain.

    Hospitals Under Pressure

    Last week, several Queensland hospitals paused non-urgent surgeries due to rising cases of influenza and COVID-19. At the same time, COVID outbreaks have been reported in over 200 aged care centres across Australia.

    What’s Circulating This Season?

    COVID-19

    • June surge: Nearly 32,350 COVID cases were reported—approaching last year’s June figure of 45,634.
    • Undercounting likely: Testing rates have dropped compared to early pandemic years.
    • Current variant: NB.1.8.1 (“Nimbus”), a descendant of JN.1, has driven the latest winter wave.
    • Symptoms: Classic cold-like signs plus particular painful sore throats as well as nausea, and diarrhoea.
    • Risk groups: Older adults and those with chronic conditions face severe illness risks.
    • Vaccination: Boosters target JN.1 and are effective against Nimbus and related strains like “Stratus” (XFG).
    • Who should boost: Annual boosters are widely available; those 75+ are encouraged to get one every six months.
    • Antivirals: Offered to people 70+ and at-risk younger Australians who test positive.

    Table: Source COVID-19 vaccine advice and recommendations | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

    Influenza (Flu)

    • Severity: The 2025 flu season has hit hard, with January–May cases up 30% over last year, the highest first quarter influenza case numbers since the end of the COVID pandemic.
    A graph showing the spread of the spread of the coronavirusAI-generated content may be incorrect.

    Table: Source Dashboard  · NINDSS Portal

    • Symptoms: High fever, muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, and congestion.
    • Who’s most vulnerable: Elderly, young children, and pregnant people.
    • Vaccination access:
    • Free for children aged 6 months to 4 years, people 65+, pregnant women, and high-risk groups.
    • Free in Queensland and WA for everyone aged 6 months+; other regions may charge up to A$30.

    RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

    • Reporting: Only tracked since 2021, making long-term comparisons tricky.
    • Case count: June 2025 saw 27,243 cases—on par with June 2024. The peak may have just passed.
    • Symptoms: Similar to a cold, but can escalate to bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
    • Who’s at risk: Infants, elderly, and those with chronic conditions.
    • Treatment & prevention:
    • Free vaccine now available for pregnant women to protect newborns up to six months.
    • Monoclonal antibody injection offered for at-risk children under two.
    • Older adults can access 2 vaccines brands recommended for:
    • Everyone aged 75+
    • At-risk individuals 60+
    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 60+
    • Note: These adult vaccines cost ~$300 and aren’t subsidised (yet). Protection lasts at least 3 years.

    The Common Cold

    • Causes: The common cold can be caused by over 200 virus types—mostly rhinoviruses, but also coronaviruses and others.
    • Symptoms: Sneezing, congestion, sore throat, fatigue, mild fever.
    • Frequency: Children average 6–8 colds per year; adults get 2–4.
    • Treatment: Rest, hydration, and OTC remedies. A universal vaccine is still elusive due to viral diversity.

    How to Stay Safe

    Even minor viruses can cause major disruptions. To protect yourself and others:

    • Maintain good hygiene practices.
    • Cover your coughs and teach kids to do the same.
    • Wear a high-quality mask if you’re at increased risk.
    • Rest at home when unwell.

     Rapid “panel tests” that detect influenza A/B, COVID, and RSV are now available for home use—handy if you’re feeling off this winter.

    By taking simple precautions, we can help reduce pressure on healthcare systems and safeguard vulnerable communities.

    It’s easy to get an assessment from the comfort of one’s home using MediLeave – a leading Telehealth platform in Australia. Using MediLeave’s Telehealth platform, you can speak to a doctor on demand, and if deemed suitable for your health issue, the doctor can provide a medical certificate online and instant scripts (if appropriate) when you have a cold and flu symptoms.

    📱 Visit our website: www.medileave.com.au

    The content provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional medical consultation. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns related to vaginal discharge or reproductive health, please seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The views or recommendations expressed in this article and any linked resources do not necessarily reflect those of MediLeave or its affiliates.

    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    Lakisha Davis

      Lakisha Davis is a tech enthusiast with a passion for innovation and digital transformation. With her extensive knowledge in software development and a keen interest in emerging tech trends, Lakisha strives to make technology accessible and understandable to everyone.

      Follow Metapress on Google News
      Solid Tires vs. Pneumatic Tires: Which is Better for Your Electric Scooter?
      October 6, 2025
      Comparing PVD and CVD: Which is Better for Your Application?
      October 6, 2025
      Achieving success in tech through cloud computing expertise
      October 6, 2025
       Winter Brings a Wave of Respiratory Illnesses Across Australia
      October 6, 2025
      Tanjirou Scar: Tanjiro Kamado’s Transformative Scar
      October 5, 2025
      SYFM: Decoding the Meaning And TikTok’s Viral Slang Explained
      October 5, 2025
      NWS Meaning Urban: Snapchat’s Hidden Definition
      October 5, 2025
      Gemini Hijacked My Dating Profile — 10,000 Matches Later I’m Engaged to a VC Partner
      October 5, 2025
      ChatGPT Became My Personal Trainer — I Got Stronger in 30 Days Without a Gym Subscription
      October 5, 2025
      The Complete Guide to IPTV Free Trial, Providers, and Services
      October 5, 2025
      How to Avoid Litigation While Supporting Disabled Tenants
      October 5, 2025
      When Recovery From Addiction Becomes the Start of Something Bigger
      October 5, 2025
      Metapress
      • Contact Us
      • About Us
      • Write For Us
      • Guest Post
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms of Service
      © 2025 Metapress.

      Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.