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17-10-2023

The Number of Sick People Increased Over the Week

Iliustracija

The National Public Health Centre under the Ministry of Health (NPHC) informs that the total incidence rate of influenza, acute upper respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 was 1082.2 cases / 100 000 population in the country last week (9-15 October) compared to 988.5 cases / 100 000 population the week before.  In week 41 of this year, the lowest incidence rate of influenza, ARI and COVID-19 was reported in Alytus County, and the highest - in Vilnius County. Compared  with the data of previous week, it can be seen that the number of people suffering from flu, ARI or COVID-19 increased over the week 41. 

In week 41 of this year, 4 persons were hospitalized due to influenza (3 children and 1 individual aged 65 and over).  One person aged 65 and over was treated in the intensive care unit. The previous week (October 2-8), not a single person was admitted to a hospital due to the flu in Lithuania. 

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

According to the data from the National Public Health Care Laboratory (NPHCL), a total of 51 specimens were taken in week 40 from patients with symptoms of ARI, but none of them tested positive for any type of virus. 

Now is the best time to get vaccinated

We would like to remind everybody that the most reliable protection against influenza and COVID-19 is vaccination. This season, it is recommended to get vaccinated against both diseases during one visit to the doctor. Vaccination is especially recommended for persons at risk. The risk groups for COVID-19 and influenza are the same: 

  • Persons aged 65 and older; 
  • Persons (including children) suffering from chronic diseases (cardiovascular, pulmonary diseases, bronchial asthma, metabolic, kidney diseases, diabetes, persons with immunodeficiency condition); 
  • Healthcare workers (including dentists); 
  • Persons living in social care and nursing institutions (including children); 
  • Pregnant women. 

How to register for vaccination?

Although flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available throughout the season, experts recommend that you do not delay and get vaccinated before the incidence rises (which is usually between December and February). There are several ways to register for vaccinations: 

If the health centre you are registered with does not have the COVID-19 vaccine, you can register at any other institution that does. The list of medical facilities that have COVID-19 vaccines can be found here. 
Free COVID-19 vaccine is available for all individuals covered by compulsory health insurance from 6 months of age. Free vaccination against seasonal flu vaccine is available only to individuals belonging to risk groups. 

Last updated: 31-10-2023

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