Fewer People Hospitalized due to Flu

The National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC) informs that last week (week 13/2023) the number of patients with influenza, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 decreased, the epidemic level of incidence, i.e., more than 1 500 cases/100 000 population was not exceeded in any of Municipalities for two weeks in a row. 

The total incidence rate last week was 917.7 cases/100 000 population, compared to 981.0 cases/100 000 population in week 12 of this year (20-26 March). The highest incidence rates were reported in Kaunas (1365.01 cases/100 000 population); Kazlų Rūda (1311.74 cases/100 000 population); and Kėdainiai District (1276.36 cases/100 000 population). 

Last week, 70 people were hospitalized due to flu in the country, compared to 110 a week before. As in previous weeks, most of them are children under 17 years of age. In week 13 of this year, 2 minors were treated in intensive care units. 

In the period of 27 March–2 April, two deaths from influenza were reported. The persons belonged to the age group of 80-89 and the group of 90+, neither of them was vaccinated against seasonal flu, and both had other co-morbidities. A total of 18 flu related deaths were registered in Lithuania this flu season. Almost all individuals (16) were not vaccinated against flu. 

NPHC reiterates that flu vaccination is available throughout the flu season, which usually lasts until the end of May. Influenza vaccination is especially recommended for persons belonging to risk groups. 

Data on incidence of influenza, ARI and COVID-19 in Counties

According to the data from National Public Health Laboratory, in week 12/2023, a total of 60 specimens were taken from patients with symptoms of ARI, of which 55 tested positive for type B virus, one tested positive for type A and one tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

Seasonal incidence of influenza and acute respiratory infections in Lithuania since 2017

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), in Europe for week 12/2023, 5 494 of 53 283 specimens taken to determine the influenza virus tested positive for an influenza virus; 69% were type B and 34% were type A.

European weekly data on influenza virus detections by type, season 2022/2023

NPHC specialists remind everyone that in order to protect against influenza, ARI and COVID-19, it is extremely important to wash hands thoroughly, ventilate and wet clean rooms, avoid crowds and contacts with sick (sneezing and coughing) people, and follow the coughing and sneezing etiquette. If you feel the symptoms of the disease (fever, cough, sore throat, headache, joint pain, etc.), it is recommended not to self-medicate, but to contact a family doctor.

Last updated: 17-05-2023

Related news:

Fewer Cases: The Number of Municipalities Exceeding the Epidemic Threshold Has Also Decreased

Recommendations for Residents Following a Fire in Klaipėda District

Measles in Europe and Lithuania: Vaccination Helps Control the Spread

Vaccination is the Only Protection Against Poliomyelitis

Workers to Be Monitored Following Bird Flu Outbreak at Poultry Farm in Šilutė District