18-10-2022

The Number of Flu and Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Remains Similar to that of Previous Week, Whereas the Number of COVID-19 Cases Has Decreased

According to National Public Health Center under the Ministry of Health (NVSC), last week the overall incidence rate of influenza, acute upper respiratory infections (AURI) and COVID-19 (coronavirus infection) decreased, compared to the previous week.  In the week 40, the number of cases of influenza and AURI increased, while the number of cases of COVID-19 decreased, compared to the previous week.

According to the data from NVSC, over the period 10-16 October, the overall incidence rate of influenza, AURI and COVID-19 slightly decreased and was 827.8 cases per 100,000 population, compared to 878.2 cases per 100 thousand population the previous week (October 3-10). Last week, the lowest incidence rate of these diseases was reported in Marijampolė County, whereas the highest was reported in Vilnius County.

In the week 41 of this year (October 10-16), no individuals were hospitalized, whereas in the first week of 2022-2023 flu season, one individual between the ages 2-17 was hospitalized.

According to the data of the National Public Health Laboratory, in the weeks 39-40 of 2022, no specimens were collected for detection of influenza virus, hence influenza virus was not isolated.

You can get vaccinated against several diseases at one time

NVSC notes that vaccination is the most effective measure available to protect people from flu as well as pneumococcal infection and COVID-19. Everyone who wants to get vaccinated against several different diseases at one visit should contact their family doctor. 

Other simple but effective measures to protect against flu and colds should not be ignored. One should carefully follow the rules of personal hygiene, cough and sneeze etiquette. When sneezing and coughing, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue; throw used tissues in the trash. Remember to wash your hands as often as possible (at least 20-30 seconds), use a hand sanitizer, avoid touching surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses, and do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. It is recommended to frequently ventilate and wet clean the premises. If you have flu symptoms, contact your family doctor.