Victorians are being encouraged to prepare for an expected late winter rise in respiratory illnesses, with health authorities urging people to book flu and COVID 19 vaccinations while reminding the community to use emergency departments only for the most serious medical emergencies.
Public health experts have warned that lower than expected case numbers earlier in the season are likely to be followed by an increase in respiratory infections later in winter. Health officials say there is still time for people to be vaccinated, with immunisation remaining one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.
The warning comes as hospitals traditionally face increased demand during the colder months, placing added pressure on emergency departments and ambulance services. Authorities are encouraging people to consider alternative healthcare options for non life threatening conditions, helping ensure emergency resources remain available for patients with the most urgent needs.
Victorian Health Minister and Minister for Ambulance Services Harriet Shing said residents should act now rather than wait until illness begins circulating more widely.
“It’s easier than ever to get your flu shot, and with a later flu season this year we’re urging people to get a vaccination to reduce the risks and symptoms, particularly if you’re in a higher risk group,” Ms Shing said.
Health experts have consistently advised that vaccination remains particularly important for older people, young children, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions, who are more likely to experience complications from influenza and COVID 19.
Alongside vaccinations, the Victorian Government is promoting a range of healthcare services designed to provide treatment outside busy hospital emergency departments.
Among them are the state’s 38 Urgent Care Clinics, which operate seven days a week with extended opening hours. Staffed by general practitioners and nurses, the clinics provide free treatment for conditions including sprains, minor fractures, cuts and mild infections. Care is available even for people without a Medicare card, offering another option for those requiring prompt but non emergency treatment.
Pharmacies are also playing a larger role through the Chemist Care Now program, with around 900 participating pharmacies across Victoria providing treatment for selected everyday health conditions.
The service allows eligible patients to receive care for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, musculoskeletal pain and prescriptions for the oral contraceptive pill without first visiting a GP. According to the Victorian Government, pharmacists have delivered almost 100,000 services since the program began, with women accounting for the majority of patients accessing the initiative.
Virtual care continues to form another part of Victoria’s healthcare response.
The state’s Virtual Emergency Department enables patients to consult emergency doctors and nurses through video calls at any time of the day or night, providing clinical advice without requiring travel to hospital.
Since its launch in 2020, the service has completed more than 900,000 consultations. Government figures indicate that during the past year, about 83 per cent of patients who used the Virtual Emergency Department avoided an unnecessary hospital visit.
Health authorities say services such as the Virtual Emergency Department can help reduce congestion in emergency departments while ensuring patients receive timely medical advice.
Victorians also have access to Nurse on Call, a 24 hour telephone service staffed by registered nurses who provide immediate health advice and guidance on the most appropriate level of care. While life threatening emergencies should always be directed to Triple Zero, callers with less urgent concerns may be advised to attend an Urgent Care Clinic, visit a pharmacist, contact a GP or use the Virtual Emergency Department, depending on their symptoms.
Healthcare experts have long pointed to the importance of directing patients to the most appropriate service, particularly during winter when influenza, COVID 19 and other respiratory viruses increase demand across the health system. Using alternative care pathways for minor illnesses and injuries can help emergency departments focus on patients requiring immediate hospital treatment.
Seasonal respiratory illnesses typically place additional strain on hospitals each winter, although the timing and intensity of influenza seasons can vary from year to year. Public health authorities monitor infection rates closely to guide vaccination campaigns and prepare health services for periods of increased demand.
Beyond vaccination, health advice continues to include practical measures such as staying home when unwell, practising good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing a mask in healthcare settings or crowded indoor environments if experiencing respiratory symptoms. These measures can help reduce the spread of viruses, particularly among vulnerable members of the community.
The Victorian Government says expanding healthcare options outside hospitals forms part of its broader strategy to improve access to care while reducing pressure on emergency services.
Ms Shing said residents now had more options than ever to receive treatment.
“Wherever you live, Victorians have more care accessible and convenient options than ever before, like the Virtual ED and Chemist Care Now,” she said.
She also urged the community to help preserve emergency resources for patients facing life threatening situations.
“We’re urging Victorians to prepare now and to help keep our EDs and ambulance lights and sirens for life threatening cases,” Ms Shing said.
The government’s announcement also included criticism of the Liberal National Coalition, claiming proposed spending cuts would reduce healthcare services including the Virtual Emergency Department, public hospitals and nursing staff. Those claims were included as part of the government’s political statement accompanying the announcement.
Healthcare funding remains a major point of debate in Victoria, with both major political parties expected to continue outlining competing approaches to hospital investment, workforce planning and access to care.
For residents, however, the immediate message from health authorities is straightforward. With respiratory illnesses expected to rise later in winter, vaccination, early treatment and choosing the right healthcare service remain central to helping individuals stay well while easing pressure on Victoria’s hospitals and ambulance system.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
