July 4th 2024.
In recent months, a new family of COVID-19 strains known as FLiRT has made its way to Australia. However, it seems that this family has now been overtaken by a more infectious subvariant called FLuQE. This new subvariant, which shares similarities with its predecessors, has a new mutation that experts believe makes it even more contagious.
The FLiRT family, which originated from the JN.1 variant, was responsible for a surge in infections across Australia and other countries at the beginning of the year. But now, there are concerns that the FLuQE subvariant will bring a new wave of rising cases. According to data from NSW Health, the first cases of FLuQE were reported in late March. And in just two months, by late May, it had become the dominant variant in the state.
This increase in COVID-19 cases comes at a time when other respiratory infections like whooping cough, influenza, RSV, and mycoplasma pneumonia are already circulating at high levels. As a result, this winter season is becoming increasingly filled with infections. In fact, both NSW and Queensland are currently facing a surge in whooping cough cases, a potentially fatal respiratory infection that is most dangerous for babies under 12 months old. Together, the two states have already recorded over 10,000 cases this year.
Influenza cases are also on the rise in Australia, with NSW alone reporting 16,777 cases in the past week - double the number from two weeks ago. This combination of infections is causing great concern among health authorities and the public alike. As we continue to navigate through this pandemic and the winter season, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and those around us.
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