An Australian family is grieving the sudden loss of a 47-year-old mother who died after a common flu infection quickly turned into pneumonia. Julie Theobald, from Victoria, was taken to a Melbourne hospital on June 10 after her symptoms worsened. She spent two weeks in intensive care but sadly did not recover.

Julie leaves behind 13 children, ranging in age from seven to 31, along with her husband, Billy. Her daughter Jessica wrote on GoFundMe that the family is “shocked and heartbroken,” saying they never imagined losing their mother so young. The fundraiser aims to help the family during this difficult time.

Health experts say Julie’s death reflects a growing concern this winter. Influenza cases are climbing earlier than usual, and hospital admissions are increasing across several states. Professor Catherine Bennett, an epidemiologist at Deakin University, warned that even young and healthy adults can become seriously ill from the flu. She noted that emergency departments in some areas are already seeing influenza numbers approach or exceed Covid-related cases.

Professor Bennett encouraged Australians to update their flu vaccinations, explaining that protection fades after about six months and strains change each year. She also recommended wearing masks in crowded places, improving ventilation, and keeping distance when around new people. These small measures, she said, can greatly reduce the risk of severe illness, especially for those with underlying conditions.

At the time of publication, the GoFundMe for Julie’s family had reached $6,000.