Flu Activity Continues to Rise: More People Hospitalized

According to data possessed by the National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC), the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs), and COVID-19 in Lithuania increased during week 5 of the year, reaching 1,409.0 cases per 100,000 population. In comparison, during week 4 of the year (19–25 January), the rate stood at 1,253.3 cases per 100,000 population. The number of influenza and URTI cases increased, while COVID-19 incidence remained relatively stable. Overall morbidity levels are similar to those observed during the same period in previous seasons. The highest numbers of influenza cases are typically recorded in January and February.

Influenza activity in Lithuania continues to intensify, making strict adherence to hygiene measures especially important. Residents are encouraged to wash their hands frequently or disinfect them when handwashing is not possible; ventilate indoor spaces regularly and clean them using wet methods; and follow proper coughing and sneezing etiquette by covering the mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or coughing into a bent elbow. Individuals experiencing cold-like symptoms are advised to stay at home, avoid public gatherings, refrain from visiting relatives at home or in hospitals—especially people aged 65 and older or those with chronic illnesses—and not send unwell children to educational institutions. It is also recommended to contact a healthcare provider and follow their guidance. When caring for an ill person, the use of medical masks or respirators is advised.

Please note that healthcare and social care institutions, depending on their infrastructure and available resources, may implement stricter infection control measures. These may include managing patient flows, mandatory use of personal protective equipment, limiting the duration of visits, restricting the number of visitors, and other measures.

The lowest incidence rates were recorded in Panevėžys County, while the highest were observed in Šiauliai County. Epidemic-level morbidity—defined as exceeding 1,500 cases per 100,000 population—was reached in 17 Municipalities. We remind the public that the epidemiological situation is assessed comprehensively, taking into account the combined incidence of respiratory infections caused by influenza, COVID-19, and other viruses. Decisions on declaring an epidemic also consider additional indicators, such as hospital, intensive care, and critical care bed occupancy related to influenza and/or COVID-19, as well as the situation in educational institutions. NPHC specialists continuously monitor the situation, cooperate with Municipal authorities, and will propose declaring an epidemic if necessary.

During the past week (week 5), 320 people were hospitalized due to influenza and 29 due to COVID-19 in Lithuania. A total of 28 patients were treated in intensive care units for these illnesses. Last week, nine deaths from influenza were reported (42 in total this season). The deceased belonged to the following age groups: 50–59 (1), 60–69 (1), 70–79 (2), 80–89 (4), and over 90 (1). Nearly all (8) had chronic conditions and were unvaccinated. Additionally, one death from COVID-19 was reporded last week (35 in total this season); the individual was aged 80–89, had chronic illnesses, and was unvaccinated.

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

According to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) for week 4, the number of people seeking medical care for AURTIs continues to rise across European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries.

COVID-19 incidence remains low across all age groups compared with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Influenza virus circulation remains high, with the A(H3N2) subtype predominating, while the A(H1N1)pdm09 virus is also actively spreading. This season, the highest number of hospitalizations continues to be observed among individuals aged 65 and older; however, hospital admissions among children aged 5–14 are increasing.

RSV activity also remains elevated, with a growing number of hospital visits, particularly among children under five years of age.

Last updated: 03-02-2026

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