Tejal Somvanshi
A new COVID-19 variant, XEC, has triggered a steep rise in cases across Queensland, with hospitalizations doubling in less than two weeks. The variant accounted for 44% of detected cases in the past fortnight, with daily hospital admissions reaching 258 patients – a 128% increase in less than two weeks.
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr. Heidi Carroll reports that out of 70,023 cases recorded in 2024, 19% required hospitalization. “Most of those being hospitalized are over the age of 65 and not up to date with vaccinations,” Dr. Carroll stated, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination compliance.
The data reveals concerning patterns: 77% of the 305 COVID-19 patients currently in Queensland hospitals are aged 65 and above. Between December 9 and 15, the daily average of COVID-19 patients in public hospital beds jumped from 113 to 258.
Dr. Lara Herrero, Associate Professor Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics at Griffith University, explained the variant’s unusual characteristics: “We don’t know why yet, but reports suggest it may be able to spread more easily than other variants. It’s hard to predict how XEC will behave in Australia as we head into summer. We’ll need more research to understand more about this variant as it spreads.”
The impact extends beyond healthcare. MYOB data shows sick leave rates in Queensland increased 40% compared to the same period last year’s winter period. The second most common strain, KP3.1.1, represents 34% of cases, prompting health authorities to recommend updated 2024-2025 vaccines targeting both variants.
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The federal Health Department now recommends one primary dose for adults with annual boosters for those aged 18-64, while recommending six-monthly boosters for individuals over 65. Despite these measures, declining booster uptake and reduced adherence to preventive protocols have contributed to several respiratory illness peaks in 2024.
Dr. Carroll warned about holiday gatherings increasing transmission risks: “We’re now in peak festive-gathering season, which, unfortunately, means Queenslanders are at a greater risk of catching and spreading the virus. Don’t be the person who gives the unwelcome gift of COVID-19.”
The state’s health system has also tracked spikes in RSV, influenza, and whooping cough throughout 2024, leading to the implementation of free flu vaccinations after 11 people died before May.
