​​Don’t let influenza ruin your holiday plans this festive season​

According to data collected in NSW Health’s respiratory surveillance report, this year NBMLHD has had 11,355 notifications of influenza (week ending 6 December 2025), the highest number of notifications reported in over 10 years.

In November 2025 alone, the number of notifications for influenza were ten times that of those reported in the same month the previous year. Most notifications have been for young children from 5 to 9 years old.

NBMLHD Public Health specialist, Dr Alvis Zibran says higher levels of influenza activity at this time of year is very unusual.

“Influenza is highly contagious and far more serious than the common cold. Influenza may last for more than a week and can include fever and chills, cough, runny nose, joint pain, headaches, nausea and vomiting,” explains Dr Zibran.

If you haven’t had your 2025 flu vaccine, Dr Zibran reminds us it’s not too late. 

“It may stop you from getting sick, and even if you do catch the flu, it can make your symptoms much milder and reduce the risk of hospitalisation or serious complications.”

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over 6 months, especially those at higher risk of severe illness including people aged 65 years and older.

This is particularly important if you’re at high risk of severe illness, as flu is still active at an unusual level in NSW. It is also important for people who are planning overseas travel as influenza is also circulating in many other countries.

Don’t let influenza ruin your holidays plans. Here are some top tips to protect yourself and others:

• stay up to date with your recommended influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations

• stay home if you are sick and wear a mask if you need to leave home

• get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces and avoid crowded spaces

• consider taking a rapid antigen test before visiting those more vulnerable

• make a plan with your doctor if you're at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or influenza about what to do if you get sick, including what test to take, and discussing if you are eligible for antiviral medicine

• practice good general hygiene, like regular handwashing.

For more information on respiratory illness please visit the NSW Health website.