The number of Queensland children under five hospitalised with the flu has doubled in a week, prompting warnings from the State Government.
State Health Minister Shannon Fentiman has urged parents to ensure their children are vaccinated.
Minister Fentiman said the flu season was not expected to peak until the end of the month.
She said as at August 10 there were 364 people hospitalised with flu, with numbers continuing to climb compared to around the same time last week, which saw 318 hospitalisations.
“Of serious concern is the increase in hospitalisations seen in children under five years of age which has more than doubled (to) 28 this week.
“Less than 15 percent of children admitted to hospital with influenza have been vaccinated.”
Minister Fentiman said flu vaccination was free for all Queenslanders.
“With the Chief Medical Officer warning we’re potentially weeks away from seeing the worst of the flu season, I’m asking all Queenslanders to please get your free flu jab.
“You can get your free flu vaccination at the chemist, at your GP, and even at the Ekka.”
The warning comes as Queensland hospitals recorded their busiest June quarter for elective surgeries, treating almost 38,000 patients.
Minister Fentiman said the latest hospital performance data shows 37,682 public patients underwent surgery between April and June, 1361 more than the same period last year.
