At the end of January, the number of people who went to the doctor with flu-like complaints already decreased. The number was then below the limit for an epidemic, but the decline did not continue. In addition, the number of samples in which the flu virus was found remained high and even increased again. That is why the experts continued to speak of a flu epidemic. In the past two weeks, the number of people who visited their GP with flu-like symptoms fell further to the level before the flu epidemic. In addition, the number of samples with the flu virus (influenza virus) also decreased to the level of the beginning of the flu epidemic. This decrease was seen for samples from general practices, laboratories and hospitals.
Peak in first week of 2023
The flu epidemic started in mid-December 2022. The number of people who went to the GP with flu-like complaints was above the epidemic limit of 58 in 100,000 people for a total of 4 weeks. The peak of the epidemic was in the first week of 2023, when 99 out of 100,000 people with flu-like symptoms went to their GP.
Two phases
In addition to the aforementioned limit, the experts also check whether flu virus or other respiratory viruses are present in the samples taken from a number of people who visit their GP with flu-like symptoms. This also applies to samples from laboratories and hospitals.
The combination of all this data shows that the flu epidemic occurred in two phases. A first wave was seen between mid-December and late January. This was followed by a second, milder, wave that has lasted until now.
Coughing and sneezing
The flu epidemic is over, but you can still get the flu. Influenza viruses and other respiratory viruses, such as the RS virus and coronavirus, are very contagious. You can spread them by coughing and sneezing. You reduce the chance of transmitting the virus to others by:
* often wash your hands;
* coughing and sneezing into your elbow;
* keep your distance;
* consider whether contact with vulnerable relatives or friends can be postponed.
flu jab
This is especially important in contact with vulnerable people, such as the elderly and young children. They can become seriously ill from these viruses. Vulnerable people are invited every autumn for the flu shot. This is the best protection against serious consequences of an infection with the flu virus.
By: National Education Guide