Flu cases are on the rise across Europe post-holiday season, with children under 15 and adults over 60 being the most affected. Hospitals in countries like France and Spain are reporting a surge in admissions, with the dominant strain being influenza B. To handle the increasing number of patients, hospitals have set up temporary units to alleviate the strain on emergency departments. Elderly patients are at a higher risk for severe respiratory complications, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to prevent severe cases.
In France, general practitioners like Dr. Jean-Luc Leymarie are expressing concern over the magnitude of the epidemic, noting that the majority of severe cases involve unvaccinated individuals. Spain is also facing a rapid rise in influenza cases, with regions like Catalonia and Valencia overwhelmed by the influx of patients. Hospitals are preparing for an expected peak in the coming weeks, with the dominant strain this season being influenza B. Health workers are urging for preparedness to handle the surge in cases.
Hungary has also seen a rise in flu cases, leading to the implementation of stricter health measures in cities like Budapest. Some clinics have made it mandatory to wear masks, and visitor bans have been put in place to control the virus’s spread. Hospitals in other cities like Győr, Vác, and Debrecen have followed suit to curb the spread of the virus. Meanwhile, Romania has reported over 4,100 cases last week, with four deaths linked to flu complications. Bucharest and other regions like Cluj and Brasov report the highest case numbers, with health officials warning of a further rise as schools reopen.
Despite the increasing number of flu cases in Europe, medical experts stress the importance of vaccination as the most effective prevention method. Over 1.1 million flu vaccines have been administered in Romania alone this flu season, with doctors emphasizing that it is not too late to get protected. For children aged 2–18, a nasal spray vaccine offers a needle-free option, with immunity developing in approximately two weeks. Health officials across the continent urge citizens to take precautions like vaccination to mitigate the impact of the flu and prevent further spread of the virus.
With hospitals across Europe facing a surge in flu cases post-holiday season, medical experts are urging citizens to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Children under 15 and adults over 60 are particularly at risk for severe respiratory complications, highlighting the critical importance of vaccination. Clinics in countries like Hungary have implemented stricter health measures, while Romania has seen a significant increase in cases and deaths linked to flu complications. It is crucial for individuals to get vaccinated and take preventive steps to protect themselves and others from the flu.
As Europe battles this seasonal epidemic, healthcare facilities are working to manage the influx of patients and prepare for an expected peak in the coming weeks. Health workers are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and urging citizens to take precautions like vaccination. With over 1.1 million flu vaccines administered in Romania this flu season, doctors stress that it is not too late to get protected. By taking proactive measures and getting vaccinated, individuals can help mitigate the impact of the flu and prevent further spread of the virus across the continent.
