21-03-2023

The Number of People Being Treated for Flu in Hospitals Is Not Decreasing

The incidence of influenza, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 in Lithuania has slightly increased this week again. According to the National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC), in week 11 of this year (13-19 March), the total incidence rate was 1014.6 cases/100 thousand population compared to 909.1 cases/100 thousand population the previous week.

The epidemic level of incidence was reached and exceeded in two Municipalities - Šiauliai (1642.28 cases/100 thousand population) and Visaginas (1512.76 cases/100 thousand population). The highest rates of incidence last week were reported in Elektrėnai Municipality (1492.98 cases/100 thousand population), Rietavas Municipality (1422.57 cases/100 thousand population), and Vilnius District Municipality (1420.63 cases/100 thousand population).

Over the past three weeks, there has been an increase in the number of people admitted to hospitals due to flu. Last week, 70 people were hospitalized (compared to 65 and 54 people in week 10 and 9, respectively), most of whom (65) were children under 17 years of age. However, no individuals were treated in intensive care units.

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

According to the data from the National Public Health Laboratory, in week 10 of this year, a total of 44 specimens were taken from patients with symptoms of ARI, of which 1 sample was positive for influenza type A, 28 for influenza type B, and 3 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 in week 10/2023, 6 693 of 55 690 specimens tested positive for influenza virus; 2,658 (40%) were type A, and 4,035 (60%) were type B. 

European weekly data on influenza virus detections by type, season 2022/2023 

Do not ignore preventive measures

Flu season in Lithuania usually lasts until the end of May (week 20 of the year), hence NPHC specialists urge everyone to carefully follow the etiquette of coughing and sneezing, wash your hands often with soap and water, ventilate the premises often, spend enough time outside, etc. If you have flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, headache, joint pain, etc.), contact your family doctor.