In the latest NSW respiratory surveillance report, this key indicator of activity increased to 24 per cent - up from 18 per cent a week earlier.
“Influenza activity is at a high level and continues to increase, with the number of presentations to emergency departments increasing and the number of influenza notifications also increasing,” the report said.
Considering all RSV indicators, the report suggests activity is considered to be at a moderate level.
Pertussis and pneumonia continue to be unseasonably high in school aged children.
COVID-19 activity remains at high levels but is starting to decline.
As virus numbers continue to surge, MLHD is urging those most at risk to get their flu shots.
Those aged 65 and over, in particular, are being encouraged to book for their free flu shot.
MLHD senior medical Advisor Dr Anton Forsyth said this age group is at higher risk of severe illness from influenza, but vaccination rates are not where they should be.
“At present, just over half of people 65 and over (57 per cent) in New South Wales have received their flu vaccine,” he said.
The vaccine is also free for other high risk groups which include children aged six months to under five years; Aboriginal people from six months of age; pregnant women; and those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, severe asthma, kidney, heart, and lung disease.
With all three viruses circulating, people are asked to avoid visiting high-risk settings including hospitals and aged care facilities if they are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness.