Health
Austria is experiencing a significant rise in influenza cases,with the Virology Center of meduni Vienna reporting a fourfold increase in clinical samples over the past week.
The good news is that the current flu vaccine is effective against the circulating strains. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) reported 905 cases of influenza last week, while nearly 72,000 insured individuals were sick with milder respiratory infections. With COVID-19 cases reaching 2,666, the importance of vaccination against influenza is underscored. ÖGK chief Physician Andreas Krauter emphasized the need for vaccination to bolster the immune system, especially as the flu season peaks in February.
influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and Influenza B viruses are currently predominant. As of December 15, only 844,000 flu vaccinations have been recorded in Austria, representing less than ten percent of the population. This year, the flu vaccine is available for free to all Austrians, recommended for infants, pregnant women, and those over 60, among others. In previous seasons,influenza has claimed up to 4,000 lives,including children.
Increasing flu Activity Across Europe
The flu wave typically begins in Austria in December or early January, with a peak in February. This year,the Virology Center has declared an earlier onset compared to last season. Other European countries, including Ireland, Norway, and France, are also reporting widespread influenza activity, with regional outbreaks noted in Sweden, Hungary, Greece, Malta, and Bulgaria.
Rising Influenza Cases in Austria: Q&A with Virology Expert Dr.Maria schmitt
Time.news Editor: With Austria experiencing a notable rise in influenza cases, can you explain the current situation and what has driven this increase?
Dr. Maria Schmitt: Absolutely, the latest reports from the Virology Center of meduni vienna show a fourfold increase in clinical samples over the last week, indicating that we are entering a particularly active flu season. This early surge is somewhat unusual and is likely influenced by several factors, including changes in public behaviour and possibly the waning immunity from last year’s vaccination as we move into colder months.
Editor: The good news is that the current flu vaccine appears to be effective against the circulating strains. How critically important is vaccination this flu season, especially given the concurrent rise in COVID-19 cases?
Dr. Schmitt: Vaccination is vital, particularly this season when we are seeing the co-circulation of influenza and COVID-19. The flu vaccine is effective against the predominant strains, namely Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and Influenza B, which is reassuring. The Austrian Health Insurance fund’s report of nearly 72,000 individuals suffering from milder respiratory infections highlights the necessity of flu vaccination to help reduce the burden on health systems as we approach the peak season in Febuary.
Editor: Austria has already seen around 905 reported cases of influenza in just one week,yet fewer than ten percent of the population has received their flu vaccine. What can be done to increase vaccination rates?
Dr.schmitt: Education is key here. We need to emphasize the importance of vaccination not just for individual protection but for community health as well. Campaigns should focus on vulnerable populations,such as infants,pregnant women,and the elderly,who are more susceptible to severe outcomes from influenza. Additionally, making the vaccine freely available, as Austria has done, should encourage more people to get vaccinated.
Editor: Other European countries are also facing increased flu activity. What does this mean for Austria and its healthcare system?
Dr. Schmitt: The uptick in influenza cases across Europe signals that this is not just a localized issue but part of a broader trend. As seen in countries like Ireland, Norway, and France, regional outbreaks can strain healthcare resources.Increased hospitalizations from flu can complicate care for COVID-19 patients, which is why it’s critical for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and proactive in promoting flu vaccination.
Editor: With the flu vaccine being available for free to all Austrians this year, what practical advice would you give to our readers regarding vaccination?
Dr. Schmitt: I would urge everyone, especially those within the targeted groups, to get vaccinated as soon as possible. It’s not only a proactive measure for personal health but also helps protect friends, family, and the community. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks in crowded places, can help mitigate the spread of respiratory infections during this peak season.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Schmitt, for your insights on the rising influenza cases in Austria. As the flu season progresses, understanding and addressing these challenges will be crucial for public health.
Dr. Schmitt: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope that with increased awareness and proactive measures, we can reduce the impact of this flu season on our communities.