The flu season has started approximately four weeks earlier than in previous seasons, with at least 27 of the 38 countries in the WHO European region reporting “high or very high flu activity”. The WHO Europe Director, Kluge, reiterated the need for vaccination and the use of masks if symptoms are present, especially near risk groups or in crowded places.
“"The flu arrives every winter, but this year is a little different. This shows that only a small genetic variation of the flu virus can put enormous pressure on our healthcare systems, because people do not have developed immunity against the virus."
In Catalonia, the flu epidemic, considered the worst in the last 15 years, has doubled its incidence in the last week, reaching a very high level of transmission. The high circulation of the virus, especially among the pediatric population, has forced primary care centers (CAP) to diagnose 32,920 new cases, according to the Catalan Surveillance Information System (SIVIC).
“"Emergency services have increased throughout Catalonia. The more flu there is, the higher the care pressure on the centers. Right now it is very high."
The estimated flu incidence is 766 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, more than double the previous week. Regarding the total acute respiratory infections (including flu, rhinovirus, Covid, and RSV), the rate is 1,152 affected per 100,000 inhabitants. Ahead of Christmas gatherings, Salut insists on vaccination, ventilation, and mask use if symptoms are present, especially when in contact with vulnerable people.
