Flu season
As Australia’s flu season kicks off, scientists make a breakthrough
Influenza vaccines have to be reformulated every year, but that could change thanks to work by Australian researchers.
- by Aisha Dow
Latest
‘DropTok’: Is our obsession with clear eyes doing more harm than good?
Over-the-counter eye drops have become part of many people’s daily routines. But experts are concerned excessive use may be masking underlying problems.
- by Nell Geraets
WA urged to roll up as government rolls out free flu jabs
The West Australian government has announced free flu vaccines for residents older than six months for the third year in a row.
- by Cameron Myles
It’s not just you: ‘flu season’ is starting earlier
There are above-average cases of flu and RSV, as well as the nation’s first surge in whooping cough since the COVID-19 lockdowns.
- by Mary Ward
Exclusive
Science
Virus volunteers to help Melbourne’s new human trials clinic prepare for the next pandemic
The flu, malaria and even gonorrhoea will be studied to help the first lab of its type in the southern hemisphere stay one step ahead of the prime candidate for the next pandemic.
- by Aisha Dow
Perspective
Coronavirus pandemic
COVID never killed the ‘soldier on’ mentality, especially when you can work from home
Queensland suffered through its worst year for flu in 2023 in decades. And our “soldier on” mentality – which never really went away – isn’t helping.
- by Felicity Caldwell
Exclusive
Productivity Commission
How spending $81 million could save 500 lives in NSW every year
Vaccinating 55 per cent of healthy people under 65 would provide greater protection to vulnerable people, a new report has found.
- by Laura Banks
The cold and flu drug you’ve relied on for years doesn’t work
They may be stocked on the shelves of pharmacies and supermarkets across Australia, but the pills you’ve been popping to stop your runny nose are no better than a placebo.
- by Laura Banks
‘We’ve been constantly sick’: Why we can’t kick the ‘yo-yo flu’
If you’ve been sick on and off this year, you might be a victim of the “yo-yo flu”. Here’s what it is, and why you have it.
- by Amber Schultz
Exclusive
Healthcare
Influenza B is back and more children are ending up in hospital
Doctors warn the flu season is yet to peak in Victoria and with flu vaccination rates lower than usual, hospitals are bracing for a surge in cases among children.
- by Melissa Cunningham
Free flu jabs as sick Queenslanders told to stay home
Flu vaccines will be free for all Queenslanders amid concern about the disease spreading among children as students return from holidays.
- by Nick Gibbs