Queensland Reports 13% Increase in Flu Hospitalisations

Strategic Insights -

Respiratory illnesses are on the rise in Queensland, Australia, with flu hospitalisations seeing a 13% increase compared to the same time last year. Over 3,650 cases were recorded in the past week, with more than 270 people hospitalised. Queenslanders are encouraged to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, with free flu vaccinations available at over 2,500 community immunisation providers across the state.

Key Takeaways:

  • Flu hospitalisations have increased by 13% compared to the same time last year, with 3,650 cases recorded in the past week.
  • Over 270 people were hospitalised with flu last week, with an average of 184 public hospital beds occupied daily by patients with flu.
  • Since the start of the year, 3,915 people have been hospitalised with flu, with 88% of patients not vaccinated.
  • COVID-19 hospitalisations have also increased, with 182 people hospitalised last week, with an average of 141 hospital beds occupied by patients with COVID-19.
  • RSV hospitalisations have increased, with over 70 people hospitalised last week, with an average of 53 hospital beds occupied by RSV patients.

Statistics:

  • 3,650 flu cases were recorded in the past week (July 14-20).
  • 270 people were hospitalised with flu last week, with an average of 184 public hospital beds occupied daily by patients with flu.
  • 3,915 people have been hospitalised with flu since the start of the year, with 88% of patients not vaccinated.
  • 182 people were hospitalised with COVID-19 last week, with an average of 141 hospital beds occupied by patients with COVID-19.
  • 70 people were hospitalised with RSV last week, with an average of 53 hospital beds occupied by RSV patients.
  • 39,918 flu cases have been recorded this year to date.
  • 91 flu-related deaths have been reported this year.
  • 921 RSV cases were notified in the last week.
  • 973 fewer RSV hospitalisations among infants under 6 months of age have been observed since the RSV Prevention Program commenced in April 2024.
  • 20,058 RSV cases have been reported this year.
  • 147 people were in hospital with COVID-19 on July 20, 2025.

Sources:

  • Queensland Health, Government of Australia. (2025). Influenza, RSV and COVID-19 surveillance data as of 20 July 2025.