The Number of Sick People Is Increasing: It Is the Right Time to Get Vaccinated

The National Public Health Centre (NPHC) gives notice that the number of people suffering from influenza, acute respiratory infections (ARI) and COVID-19 increased in the country over the past week. 

During 16-22 October (week 42), the total incidence rate of influenza, acute respiratory infections and COVID-19 was higher than the week before (week 41), 1 166 and 1082.2 cases /100 000 population, respectively. Last week, the lowest incidence rate was reported in Alytus County, whereas the highest in Vilnius County. 

The epidemic level was not reached in any of Municipalities, i.e., it did not exceed 1500 cases /100 000 population.

 Last week, 11 persons were hospitalized due to flu in the country, including 7 children (0-17 years old) and 4 adults over the age of 65, compared to 4 persons the previous week. 

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 238 specimens were taken in week 41 from patients with symptoms of ARI, 2 of which tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), until the end of week 41 (15 October), the incidence rates of respiratory diseases (influenza and ARI) in most EU and/or EEA countries remained similar to those of the same time previous years. Seasonal influenza activity has remained low in most countries. 

The proportion of respiratory diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2 was much higher than that of RSV and seasonal influenza. 

Circulation of SARS-CoV-2 among the elderly persons continued to increase in about half of the countries, leading to an increase of admissions to hospitals and intensive care units. 

The number of vaccinated people is growing, and we encourage everyone to join the list

According to the data obtained from the State Data Agency, this season ( since 5 October), 13 339 persons have already been vaccinated against the COVID-19 disease. In September, 24 619 persons belonging to risk groups were vaccinated against influenza. 

NPHC specialists reminds the citizens that vaccination is the most effective protection against flu and COVID-19. One can get vaccinated against 2 diseases during one visit. We especially encourage to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19 people belonging to risk groups: people over 65 years old, people living in social care and nursing facilities, people with chronic diseases, people with weakened immunity, as well as health care workers and pregnant women.

COVID-19 vaccines are available at any medical facility. If people belonging to risk groups want to get both vaccines (against flu and COVID-19), they can do so at the health care facility, where they are registered. 

Last updated: 31-10-2023

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