NPHC: The Number of People Hospitalized with Influenza Remains High

According to data from the National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC), during week 6 of the year (2–8 February) the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs), and COVID-19 in Lithuania reached 1,280.4 cases per 100,000 population. In week 5 of the year (26 January–1 February), this figure was higher, at 1,409.0 cases per 100,000 population.

While the number of influenza cases decreased, the incidence of AURTIs and COVID-19 remained similar. At the same time last year (week 6/2025), the overall incidence rate stood at 1,806.1 cases per 100,000 population.

Adherence to Preventive Measures Is Essential

Influenza has not yet receded in Lithuania; therefore, the public is advised to continue following simple but effective preventive measures. It is essential to strictly observe personal hygiene rules as well as proper cough and sneeze etiquette. When coughing or sneezing, the nose and mouth should be covered, disposable tissues should be used and discarded immediately after use.

Frequent handwashing is strongly recommended. It is also very important to avoid touching potentially virus-contaminated surfaces and to refrain from touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Regular ventilation of indoor spaces and wet cleaning of premises are advised. If illness occurs, individuals should contact their family doctor.

People experiencing cold-like symptoms are advised to stay at home, avoid public gatherings, and refrain from visiting relatives who are hospitalized or receiving care at home—especially those over 65 years of age and individuals with chronic illnesses. Parents are urged not to send sick children to educational institutions, to consult their physician, and to follow medical recommendations.

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

Fewer Municipalities Above the Epidemic Threshold

The lowest incidence rate was recorded in Panevėžys County, while the highest was in Vilnius County. Epidemic-level incidence (exceeding 1,500 cases per 100,000 population) was reached in 11 Municipalities, compared to 17 Municipalities the previous week.

When assessing the epidemiological situation, the overall incidence of respiratory tract infections caused by influenza, COVID-19, and other viruses is evaluated comprehensively. Decisions on declaring an epidemic also take into account additional criteria, such as hospital, intensive care, and intensive therapy bed occupancy due to influenza and/or COVID-19, as well as the situation in educational institutions. NPHC specialists continuously monitor the situation, cooperate with Municipal representatives, and, if necessary, will propose declaring an epidemic.

Hospitalizations and Mortality

During the past week (week 6 of the year), 301 people were hospitalized in Lithuania due to influenza and 37 people due to COVID-19. A total of 21 patients were treated in intensive care units for these diseases.

Last week, 13 deaths from influenza were registered (55 in total this season). The deceased belonged to the following age groups: 10–19 years, 60–69 years, 70–79 years (3 cases), 80–89 years (5 cases), and over 90 years (3 cases). All had chronic illnesses; 10 were unvaccinated, 2 were vaccinated, and the vaccination status of 1 person was unknown.

Additionally, 2 deaths from COVID-19 were recorded last week (37 in total this season). The individuals were aged 80–89 years and over 90 years; both had chronic illnesses. One was unvaccinated, and the vaccination status of the other was unknown.

Incidence of influenza, AURTIs, and COVID-19 by County:

Situation in Europe

According to week 5 data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the number of people seeking healthcare for acute upper respiratory tract infections in European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries remains high.

The incidence of COVID-19 across all age groups remains low compared with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Influenza virus activity in some countries is approaching or has already reached its peak. The highest incidence is observed among children aged 5–14 years. Influenza A virus predominates.

In most countries, RSV incidence continues to rise, along with increasing numbers of hospital admissions, particularly among children under five years of age.

Source of information: https://erviss.org/

Last updated: 09-02-2026

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