Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard says Queensland is well an truly in the midst of a third wave of COVID-19 which will get worse before it gets better.

705 people are currently in hospital, which is projected to increase to around 1000 by the end of the month.

There are also around 2000 medical staff currently on leave due to COVID-19 infection or the flu, putting extra strain on the health system.

While there won’t be any restrictions, Dr Gerrard has urged people to take precautions.

“People should now be thinking about preparing themselves for this wave as it gets worse over the next few weeks because it is very likely someone in your environment will be infected with this virus,” he said.

“If you are up to to date with your vaccination you are unlikely to require admission to hospital even  if you are over 65.”

Two Omicron strains of COVID, BA.4 and BA.5, combined with the flu, are cause for concern.

Queenslanders are also be urged take advantage of free flu vaccines, which are on offer until next weekend.

Anyone aged over 65 is being urged to wear a mask in public places over the next few weeks.