The alarm bell rings ECDC, indicating the probability of the upcoming period flu to be serious for the elderly and those with weak immune systems combined with its pandemic coronavirus.
According to him, although the total number of flu tests in most countries of the European Union and the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) is still low, the indications are that Influenza circulation is above the seasonal limit in Croatia, which is unusually early. The main reported subtype among the cases recorded in the EU / EEA last month is A (H3N2), which disproportionately affects the elderly and associated with lower vaccine efficacy. This is a sign that the upcoming flu season may be intense for the elderly and that flu patterns may vary between countries in terms of timing, warns the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
“Early detection of subtype A (H3N2) is an indication that the upcoming flu season may be severe, although we do not know for sure what the upcoming flu season will be like,” said Passy Pentinen, head of the ECDC flu program. . “A sharp increase in influenza infections during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could have serious consequences for the elderly and people with weakened immune systems and could further burden health systems already strained by COVID-19. “Therefore, it is important that we take the necessary precautions and protect those who are most at risk.”
ECDC: Who is at greater risk of developing serious complications from the flu
During the 2020-2021 season, it was noted significant reduction (> 99%) in the number of influenza cases detected in the EU / EEA, as broadcast by ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ. This suggests that non-pharmacological interventions, such as avoiding overcrowding and adhering to hygiene measures, are effective not only in limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 but also in influenza.
“From our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we have further evidence that non-pharmacological interventions such as physical distance and hygiene measures can effectively reduce the spread of influenza. “This is especially important to consider in environments such as nursing homes and health care settings.” He added that “vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and influenza also provides good protection against serious diseases. “Those who work in a healthcare setting or nursing home should ensure that they are vaccinated against both SARS-CoV-2 and the flu before the winter months.”
About 20% of the population gets the flu every year and one in four will show symptoms. The elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, lung problems, diabetes or immune system problems are at greater risk of developing serious complications from the flu.
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