Respiratory viral infections, including influenza (A and B), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), continue to circulate in the community.
AHPC notes that nationally:
- Reported influenza activity has increased since early May 2025, which is consistent with expected seasonal patterns. Although influenza A is the most common strain, we are seeing a higher proportion of influenza B infections compared to last year, particularly in school aged children. Influenza continues to be a significant disease in children.
- Hospitalisations due to influenza have increased as the season has progressed, particularly among children under 5 and adults over 65.
- Reported COVID-19 activity has been decreasing since late June 2025 and is much lower than previous years. Despite this, COVID-19 remains the leading cause of acute respiratory infection mortality.
- Reported RSV activity has also shown a seasonal increase. Overall case numbers are lower than observed last year, most notably in infants.
AHPC remains concerned that the number of people receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine this year remains low, especially in high risk age groups. This year’s seasonal influenza vaccine is well matched to the influenza virus strains circulating in the community. Despite public health efforts, 40% of adults aged 65 years and over and 77% of children aged six months to less than five years have not received an influenza vaccine this year and are at risk. Additionally, fewer at-risk adults have received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past year compared to the year before.
AHPC is reassured by the uptake of the RSV vaccine in pregnant people across Australia.
The best way to protect against severe disease, hospitalisation and death is to stay up to date with recommended immunisations. It is not too late to get vaccinated.
For more information about free vaccinations available under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
AHPC advises that people with respiratory symptoms should stay at home while unwell, avoid contact with people at increased risk of severe disease and refrain from visiting high risk settings such as aged care homes.
Antiviral treatment for influenza and COVID-19 remain available from healthcare providers. Know your risk, and if you are at risk of severe disease talk to your health care provider about a plan to access antiviral treatments for COVID-19 and influenza.
AHPC, in collaboration with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, will continue to monitor respiratory illness activity across Australia throughout the year and provide additional advice if concerning trends emerge.