ADELAIDE, July 4, 2025 – South Australia is facing an alarming spike in influenza cases this winter, prompting urgent calls from health officials for increased vaccination as emergency departments and GP clinics struggle to keep pace.
As of this week, more than 10,569 flu cases have been recorded across the state—a 70% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data released by SA Health. Hospitalisations have surged 55%, with over 1,000 patients admitted due to flu-related complications, pushing hospitals and ambulance services toward crisis mode.
Healthcare system under pressure
Emergency rooms are seeing record demand, and many GP clinics are experiencing days-long waitlists. Ambulance ramping has intensified, with reports of patients waiting hours for transfer into hospitals.
“This year is significantly worse than what we’ve experienced recently,” South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton told Adelaide Now. He described the situation as “a perfect storm” for already strained health services, combining high infection rates with staff shortages due to illness and fatigue.
According to SA Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier, the current wave is being driven by the influenza A (H1N1) strain and is spreading more rapidly than anticipated. “We are yet to see the peak,” Spurrier warned in comments reported by 9News, adding that the virus is hitting younger children particularly hard.
Children among the most affected
Data shows that more than 140 children under five have been hospitalised so far this flu season. This group, along with elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses, remains at the highest risk for serious outcomes.
Despite these figures, vaccination uptake remains lower than public health officials had hoped. While South Australia leads the mainland in flu vaccination among children under five—with coverage around 32%—experts say the number is still too low to offer widespread protection.
Free flu jabs expanded to pharmacies
In response to the surge, the state government recently extended access to free flu vaccinations for children under five to include participating community pharmacies, not just GPs. This move aims to boost convenience and uptake during the critical weeks ahead.
Community urged to act quickly
Authorities are urging anyone eligible for a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible, particularly families with young children, people over 65, and those with underlying medical conditions.
“Vaccination is still our best defence,” said Dr Spurrier, noting that immunisation can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and transmission.
With winter still underway, health leaders remain cautious. The state is preparing for additional public health messaging and surge planning in the event that the number of cases continues to climb through July.