Experts issue warning as flu season hits early

Flu season has hit early, with a massive increase in influenza cases compared to this time last year.

Cases are up 81 per cent to July 2 compared to 2016, prompting experts to issue a fresh reminder to get immunised.

“The flu season has certainly started … (and) it appears to be a relatively early season this year,” Dr Lou Irving from the Influenza Specialist Group told 3AW Breakfast.

“We don’t really understand why a specific season starts early or starts late.

“It’s a very good time to have a flu shot now.”

Dr Irving urged vigilance once you are diagnosed with the flu, especially is you are still sick after “three or four days”.

“There are people who just battle on when they’ve actually developed a complication from the flu,” he said.

But don’t take your common cold too seriously.

“If they’ve got a runny nose and sore throat but still well enough to work and live their normal life, that’s likely just a virus.

Click PLAY above for full audio of Dr Lou Irving’s chat with Justin and Kate