Health authorities continue to record an “unusual increase” in influenza cases for this time of year, recording 3,329 confirmed cases in the first week of January 2026 alone.
It follows a record 2025, which saw more than 502,000 influenza cases across Australia.
Experts have attributed the prolonged flu season to the emergence of a new influenza variant, subclade K.
While health experts say the strain shows “no indication of increased severity of illness”, they remain concerned about the potential added pressure on the healthcare system.
2026 influenza cases
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Influenza
Before Christmas, the Australian Health Protection Committee (AHPC) issued a health alert warning of an “unusual increase” in influenza cases for the time of year.
The surge has been linked to a new variant that emerged in Australia in August. While it is not an entirely new strain, it is believed to be less easily recognised by the immune system or previous vaccinations.
The AHPC has urged Australians to remain vigilant and continue practising preventative health measures.
