Flu Confines to Sickbed
The National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC) informs that in the period of 20-26 March, the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 has slightly decreased, however, the number of people being treated in hospitals has been increasing in recent weeks. Flu season is not over yet; therefore, we should not forget that the most effective preventive measure is vaccination. The composition of flu vaccine for this year is designed to protect against type B virus that is circulating right now. NPHC specialists urge everyone not to delay and get vaccinated, especially at risk groups.
The total incidence rate last week reached 981.0 cases/100,000 population compared to 1014.6 cases/100,000 population in week 11 of this year (13-19 March). Last week, the epidemic level, i.e., more than 1,500 cases/100,000 population was not exceeded in any Municipality, whereas in the week before (week 11 of this year), the epidemic level was reached in two Municipalities. The highest incidence rates were recorded: in Alytus (1462.25 cases/100,000 population), Elektrėnai Municipality (1373.20 cases/100,000 population), and Vilnius District (1348.98 cases/100,000 population).
In week 12 of this year, 2,230 cases of influenza were reported (in comparison to 2,165 cases the week before), 23,341 cases of acute respiratory infections (24,088 the week before), 2,003 cases of COVID-19 (2,265 cases the week before).
In the last four weeks, there has been an increase in the number of people admitted to hospitals due to flu.
Last week, 110 people were hospitalized, most of whom (94) were children under the age of 17. 5 persons were treated in intensive care units, 4 of whom were from the age group 2-17 years. 1 pregnant woman was admitted to the hospital. In week 11 of this year (13-19 March), 70 persons were hospitalized; in week10 and 9, 65 and 54 persons, respectively.
Last week two flu related deaths were reported (0-9 years of age and 10-19 years age). Neither of them was vaccinated nor had concomitant diseases. A total of 16 deaths from influenza were registered in Lithuania this flu season.
Data on incidence of influenza, ARI and COVID-19 in Counties
According to the data from National Public Health Laboratory, in week 11 of this year, a total of 49 specimens were taken from patients with symptoms of ARI, of which 44 were positive for type B virus, 3 were positive for type A, and 1 was positive for respiratory syncytial virus.
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 11/2023, 5 370 of 46 464 specimens taken to determine the influenza virus, tested positive for an influenza virus; 3 555 (66%) were type B and 1 815 (34%) were type A.
European weekly data on influenza virus detections by type, season 2022/2023
NPHC specialists advise not to relax and carefully follow other preventive measures:
• Wash your hands with soap and water as often as possible (or at least use hand antiseptic).
• Do not touch your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands.
• Avoid touching door handles, railings and other objects that may have been touched by other people.
• Ventilate and wet clean the premises as often as possible.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or sleeve (in the bending of the elbow).
• Avoid contact with sick persons.
• If you notice flu symptoms, contact your family doctor.
Last updated: 17-05-2023
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