Australia may be on the brink of a health crisis this winter, with a stealthy triple threat looming larger than many realize.
As households unknowingly become breeding grounds for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, experts fear a perfect storm of infections could overwhelm the healthcare system. Alarming new data suggests the surge has already begun—and yet, millions remain unprotected. Are we doing enough to stop it before it’s too late?
Health Experts Urge Australians to Prepare for Triple Winter Threat: COVID-19, Flu, and RSV
Australian health experts are urging the public to prepare for a triple wave of respiratory illnesses this winter—COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)—as all three continue to spread at a concerning pace. Their strongest advice: get vaccinated before the end of May for optimal protection.
“We’re already witnessing an early surge in highly contagious respiratory infections,” said Professor Paul Griffin on Wednesday. “Once a virus enters a household, it can quickly infect everyone. Early diagnosis is crucial for containing outbreaks and safeguarding vulnerable populations.”
As of May 22, Australia has confirmed over 80,000 flu cases—a more than 50% rise compared to the same period last year. Influenza, typically caused by type A or B strains, is a fast-spreading respiratory illness with multiple subtypes.
COVID-19 cases are also expected to climb, largely due to a highly transmissible Omicron subvariant known as LP8.1. This variant was behind 60% of cases in the UK by March and has triggered significant outbreaks globally since late 2024. While not more severe than prior variants, it spreads more rapidly.
Professor Catherine Bennett, an epidemiologist at Deakin University, underscored the urgency of staying up to date with COVID vaccinations—especially for those over 65 or with underlying medical conditions.
“Vaccines take a couple of weeks to offer protection and typically guard against illness for several months—roughly the length of a seasonal wave,” she explained. “Getting vaccinated in May means you’ll be covered during the peak period. Don’t wait for case numbers to rise—get ahead of it.”
She also pointed to several factors driving the expected surge: declining immunity, reduced booster uptake, and increased indoor gatherings during colder weather.
“This variant has circulated in Australia since last July, but as winter ended, many people still had recent infections or booster protection. That’s no longer the case,” she added.
Professor Griffin emphasized the value of staying current with vaccinations and using rapid antigen tests to help stop transmission within homes.
“Infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions are especially at risk of serious complications, including pneumonia, dehydration, and hospitalisation,” he said.
“Recognizing symptoms like high fever, fatigue, wheezing, and difficulty breathing early allows for timely intervention—whether that’s antiviral treatment, self-isolation, or seeking emergency care. Early testing helps both individuals and the broader health system.”
Despite growing risks, national vaccination rates fell by nearly 6% last year across all Australian states and territories.
Both COVID and flu vaccines are free and available to all Australians—even those without Medicare. They can be accessed through multiple providers, and the Healthdirect service finder can help locate nearby options.
So far in 2025, New South Wales has reported the highest number of flu cases (31,995), followed by Queensland (18,818) and Victoria (17,618). Western Australia has confirmed 6,510 cases, with South Australia (4,719), Northern Territory (1,557), Tasmania (1,126), and the ACT (1,099) reporting lower numbers.
**Conclusion:**
As winter sets in, Australians face a heightened risk of respiratory illness due to the combined threat of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Health experts are urging the public to take proactive measures—particularly timely vaccination—to protect themselves and their communities.
With cases already on the rise and more transmissible variants in circulation, early action is critical. Staying up to date with vaccines, recognizing symptoms early, and utilizing testing can help curb the spread and reduce severe outcomes, especially for vulnerable groups. Health authorities stress that the time to act is now—before the peak season hits.