In Lithuania, the incidence remains high: more people are have been admitted to hospitals

According to the data acquired by National Public Health Centre (NVSC), from March 24–30 (week 13 of this year), the overall incidence rate of flu, acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs), and COVID-19 remained almost the same, reaching 1593.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (in week 12, it was 1593.4 cases per 100,000). During the same period last season (week 13 of 2024), the incidence was lower (1218.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants).

The lowest incidence was recorded in Utena County, while the highest remains in Vilnius County. An epidemic-level incidence rate has been reached in 28 municipalities (exceeding 1500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants). The epidemiological situation is continuously monitored, and communication with Municipalities is ongoing. If necessary, it would be recommended to declare an epidemic at the Municipal level. As of today, no Municipality has declared an epidemic. It is important to note that when making decisions about declaring an epidemic, additional criteria are also considered, such as the occupancy of hospital, intensive care, and intensive therapy beds due to flu and/or COVID-19.

More people have been admitted to hospitals – in week 13 of this year: 103 individuals were hospitalized due to the flu, 22 due to COVID-19, and 9 were treated in intensive care units.

Two deaths from the flu were registered (a total of 67 this season): the individuals were in the 50–59 and 70–79 age groups. Both had chronic diseases and were not vaccinated against seasonal flu. No deaths from COVID-19 have been recorded last week (a total of 56 this season).

How to protect yourself and others?

NPHC specialists remind everyone that vaccination is possible throughout the flu season, and it is especially recommended for the individuals at risk. Residents can get COVID-19 vaccinations at any healthcare facility. Seasonal flu vaccination is free for those in risk groups and only at the healthcare facility where they are registered.

It is worth noting that healthcare and social care institutions, considering their infrastructure and resources, may currently apply stricter infection control measures, such as managing patient flows, wearing personal protective equipment, limiting the duration or number of visitors, etc.

The activity of cold-related illnesses is not decreasing, so we continue to encourage everyone to follow personal hygiene rules and coughing and sneezing etiquette. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly and frequently; if washing is not possible, use hand sanitizer. It is also important not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses, to ventilate rooms frequently, and to clean surfaces with a damp cloth. If you experience cold-like symptoms (sore throat, headache, nasal congestion, or runny nose, etc.), stay at home or work from home and contact your family doctor. If you are sick, it is recommended to wear a medical mask or respirator to help contain respiratory secretions when coughing or sneezing.

Incidence Data for Influenza, AURTI, and COVID-19 by County

Situation in Europe

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) data for week 12 of this year, the highest flu activity was recorded in week 6 of 2025, but a decreasing trend is observed in almost all countries.

The activity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) peaked in week 52 of 2024 and has since decreased but remains high.

Older adults over 65 years of age are more severely affected by flu and COVID-19, while children under 5 years old are more vulnerable to RSV infections.

COVID-19 activity began to decrease in the summer of 2024 and remained low during the winter period.

Source: ERVISS

Last updated: 31-03-2025

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