Queensland's latest COVID-19 wave is expected to peak in the coming week, prompting the chief health officer to urge anyone with symptoms to avoid visiting elderly loved ones over the Christmas break.
The number of people hospitalised for symptoms of COVID-19 has risen sharply in the week to Wednesday, with Queensland Health figures showing an increase from 320 to 515. Eight people were in ICU.
Throughout the week the average number of people in hospital with COVID was 445.
The state also recorded 14,941 new positive cases in the reporting period, an increase of 16 per cent on the previous week.
Thirty-three people died of COVID in the week, compared to 15 the previous week.
Dr John Gerrard said cases are expected to increase ahead of next week's peak.
"We are in week five of our wave and case numbers are continuing to increase," he said.
"Previous waves in Queensland have all peaked by the end of the sixth week. Early signs in other states are promising."
Vulnerable people urged to have plan to access antivirals
Dr Gerrard urged people who had even mild COVID symptoms to avoid visiting family and friends over Christmas, especially if they were elderly.
"If you are unwell, even slightly so, it's important to stay away from older people, especially those who are not up-to-date with their vaccinations," he said.
"Not seeing elderly loved ones at Christmas is disappointing, but it would be distressing if you were to infect them.
"Unfortunately, we are still seeing a high number of people in this age group being infected, who weren't up to date with their vaccinations."
Dr Gerrard said in addition to being fully vaccinated, Queenslanders should consider wearing a mask and socially distancing, especially if they are immunocompromised, elderly or vulnerable or around others who fit into that category.
The chief health officer said all Queenslanders aged 70 and older should have a plan to obtain antiviral treatments should they test positive.
Dr Gerrard said the state's COVID traffic light system will remain on amber.
This means people are advised to wear a mask in healthcare settings, indoors if they cannot socially distance, and on public transport.
Those who test positive are advised to stay home until they are well again and wear a mask in public for seven days after they test positive.
