Locals are being warned the flu is not going anywhere anytime soon.
Barwon Health says there has been a 10 per cent increase in cases across the Geelong region in the past week.
Cases overall have risen by 13 per cent compared to this time in 2023.
Dr Belinda Hibble from the local health authority said the emergency department had seen extremely sick patients.
“We are seeing a spike in hospitalisations for flu at University Hospital Geelong with patients presenting across all ages,” Dr Hibble said.
The health authority said children aged between five and 11 represented the highest number of flu cases.
Dr Daniel O’Brien said it was not too late to get a flu vaccination.
“We urge anyone in the community who is able to receive the flu vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible,” Dr O’Brien said.
“It’s also important to know that if you think you may have the flu and medical conditions that put you at risk, then contact your GP as there are treatments available.”
