Doctors tracking this year's winter illnesses predict the flu season will peak in early August, with New South Wales hospitals already moving into surge mode to handle rising demand.
Rising Flu Cases Across NSW
NSW Health reports that influenza cases have been increasing since the arrival of cold weather in mid-May, with more than 1,500 people now diagnosed with the virus each week. The state's health system has activated surge capacity to accommodate the extra patients, with further measures planned if forecasts hold true.
“It looks like we might see a peak in early August, but this may be delayed because during school holidays we see less activity, less mingling,” said NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant. She urged the public to get vaccinated ahead of the peak, noting that “it’s important that it does take a little while for your immunity to kick in.”
Other Respiratory Illnesses on the Rise
The number of people contracting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also rising, although COVID-19 cases remain low for now. Health authorities are monitoring the situation closely as winter continues.
NSW hospitals are bracing for the peak season, with surge protocols already in place. Additional capacity may be triggered in the coming weeks if the predicted peak materializes.
