Influenza shock: 15 dead – including two children – as Victoria recovers from the virus epidemic

At least 15 people were killed, including two children, even before the start of the season.

In Victoria, 700 new cases have been reported each week out of the 5,745 reported so far this year, but with the flu season in a few months, the worst may be ahead.

State health officer, Dr. Brett Sutton, confirmed the deaths of children and said the outbreak was likely caused by infected travelers from abroad .

Two children died of the flu epidemic while the death of another child is to be confirmed

"The number of states has certainly more than doubled this year and there will be many more that have not been diagnosed yet," Dr. Sutton told 3AW.

"It's certainly one of the biggest summer seasons we've seen."

The fatal cases of influenza come mainly from outbreaks in retirement homes, with older residents generally being much more vulnerable.

It is thought that current cases of influenza have come from overseas, with many people traveling to Australia having been infected during the flu season in other countries.

Last week, Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos urged people to get the flu shot before the start of the season.

"We make the flu shot free for children under five, because vaccination is safe, effective and lives-saving," she said.

"You never forget the flu, so do not forget your vaccine. Coming with the flu is not like catching a cold. It hits you fast and hard, and it can take weeks. And for some people, it can be deadly.

Two million free vaccines should be given before the official start of the influenza season, people who can receive a dose at a local pharmacy or at their doctor's office.

Victoria's Minister of Health, Jenny Mikakos, said she was making the flu shot free for children under five.