According to the Critical Health Resources Information System (CHRIS), there has been a noticeable rise in COVID-19 cases within intensive care units starting from 2022, particularly during the months of December and January. This system is instrumental in tracking ICU operations and patient numbers.

Australia’s summer waves of COVID-19 can be attributed to several influences, notably the winter season in the northern hemisphere and an influx of travelers during the Christmas period.

Griffin emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating, “We must avoid complacency and not assume the trend will continue. It’s crucial that we remain prepared and not presume the situation will automatically improve.”

He expressed a cautious optimism, saying, “Hopefully, similar to last year, we won’t see a distinct spike in cases. Instead, there should be a gradual increase in activity without overwhelming the healthcare system.”

Additionally, he noted that as the virus continues to circulate, people are naturally enhancing their immunity even if they don’t become severely ill.

“With the virus circulating in the community without getting really sick, people are still boosting their immunity.”

People with health conditions should be prepared

“Having a dose now and then, having another one, in May before we go into the winter wave, which is usually a bit more substantial, that’s probably the timing that will give them the best benefit,” she said.

“Putting on a mask just helps you not ruin someone else’s Christmas or worse, pass the virus onto someone else who might be more vulnerable to severe illness.”

Flu on the rise

Griffin said this is “definitely not usual”.