03-01-2023

Lower Incidence Rates Between Christmas and New Year

The National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC) informs that in the last week of 2022 (26 December–1 January)  the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 further decreased in the country and was 1357.8 cases/100,000 compared to 1787.6 cases/100,000 the week before (19-25 December). Over recent weeks, the incidence curve has been sloping down. This might be associated with winter school holidays, incidence decline is observed each year during this time.

In week 52, fewer cases of influenza, ARI and COVID-19 were reported compared to the week before. The lowest incidence rate remained in Utena County, whereas the highest rate remained in Kaunas County. The epidemic level of morbidity, defined as more than 1,500 cases per 100,000 people, has now been reached in 13 Municipalities, compared to 28 Municipalities the week before.

The highest incidence rates were reached in the following Municipalities: Panevėžys City (2170.59 cases /100,000), Jonava District (1935.33 cases /100 000), Kaunas City (1873.45 cases /100 000), Elektrėnai (1848.05 cases /100,000), and Kėdainiai District (1839.08 cases /100,000).

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

Over the period 26 December–1 January, 187 people were hospitalised with flu, nearly half of whom (92) were children (under 17). 12 persons were treated in intensive care units, 5 of whom were 0-17 years old.

Last week, two more deaths from influenza were reported in the country (six deaths so far this season).

According to the data from the National Public Health Laboratory, in week 51/2022 a total of 778 specimens were obtained from patients with symptoms of ARI, of which 372 were positive for influenza A virus, 2 for influenza B virus, and 106 for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

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

To reduce the risk of seasonal flu it is important to follow hygiene rules: when coughing and sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue or a bent elbow; always wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unclean hands; wet-clean and ventilate the premises regularly; strengthen your immune system: eat well, be physically active, maintain work-rest balance.