Covid Cases Set to SPIKE This Winter in Australia: urgent Warning

• COVID-19 cases expected to increase in the upcoming weeks.
• A more transmissible version will spread
• READ MORE: Signs of concerning COVID-19 vaccination side effects to be aware of

Australians have been alerted that COVID-19 cases are expected to surge dramatically this winter due to a highly infectious variant of the virus. Omicron option to cause widespread destruction throughout the nation.

Although social distancing and face masks may feel like a distant memory with Australia passing the five-year anniversary of Covid lockdowns last month, experts have warned Aussies to stay vigilant of the virus.

Variant LP.8.1. was identified as the main culprit of large outbreaks overseas in late 2024 and early 2025 and was responsible for three in five Covid cases in the UK in March.

Although this strain does not seem to lead to more severe symptoms compared to its earlier versions, recent tests indicate that it might be more transmissible.

Professor Catherine Bennett from Deakin University cautioned that the emergence of this new strain, coupled with a decrease in COVID-19 cases during the summer months and low vaccination booster rates, might lead to a significant surge in infections.

'Our immunity is waning - it's been a while since most people have had a Covid infection and fewer people are getting boosters now,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

As we enter winter, an increase in indoor gatherings will facilitate the spread of the virus. This is why respiratory virus transmissions rise during the colder season.

This version was first detected in Australia back in July of the previous year; however, at that time, we were exiting winter, had weathered the peak of the surge, and the majority of individuals either recently contracted an infection or received a booster shot.

We could begin noticing an increase in case counts from May into June instead of delaying several months later, which makes it important to inform everyone.

Luckily, the strain is also accounted for by the present COVID vaccine, which is available at no cost in Australia.

Professor Bennett stated that individuals worried about the approaching wave, especially those with compromised immune systems, should receive an additional dose of the vaccine at their earliest convenience.

'Some variants can pose significant issues for individuals, which is why those who have chronic health problems or are older than 65 are encouraged to get an early winter booster,' she explained.

It typically takes a few weeks to experience the full protection from a vaccination. Although this immunity may only last for several months, that period often matches the duration of each wave of infection.

'Scheduled for release in May and will provide protection. Do not wait until cases start increasing again. Give yourself a few weeks’ heads up.'

Regarding additional safety measures, Professor Bennett advised individuals to follow the same precautions as they would during a typical flu season.

"If visitors come over but mention they aren’t feeling well, ask them to go back home. Anyone experiencing illness should remain at home whenever feasible," she advised.

You may feel fine, yet you hesitate to risk making others ill, particularly those who could become severely unwell.

'Just be mindful that there's a higher risk over the next few months and pay extra attention.

Maintain additional spacing and remain in areas with good ventilation. Opt to have your coffee outside at your café rather than indoors during busy periods.

It's simply small details that reduce your chances of getting infected when you're moving around outside.

Covid vaccines are provided at no cost to all individuals in Australia, even those who do not possess a Medicare card.

You can obtain COVID-19 vaccinations through various providers. For locating a nearby vaccination provider, utilize the service locator available on the Healthdirect site.