MELBOURNE, June 6 (Xinhua) -- Recorded influenza cases in Australia have plummeted 65 percent compared to the same period last year, but infectious diseases experts are urging the public not to underestimate the risk.

The Australian Center for Disease Control (ACDC) released its latest respiratory surveillance report on Friday, showing 33,071 flu cases detected between Jan. 1 and May 31, 2026, down from 96,422 cases over the same period in 2025, the deadliest influenza year this century with 1,701 associated deaths.

ACDC attributed the decline to "increased population immunity" from last year's "elevated influenza activity" and reduced overseas influenza importations.

However, experts warned against a "false sense of security," noting that the fast-moving Super-K flu strain still accounts for most infections. Influenza cases rose 15 percent in late May, while respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) currently dominates hospital admissions, according to the ACDC.

Flu vaccination rates remain low, with coverage so far in 2026 at about 16 percent among adults aged 18-49 and 52 percent among those aged 65 and over, according to the Australian Immunization Register.

Deakin University epidemiologist Catherine Bennett said increased immunity may delay the seasonal peak until later in the year, buying more time for vaccination efforts, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. ■