2024-01-09 16:49:08
The Flu Wave Begins in Austria
As Covid-19 cases show a slight downward trend, the flu wave in Austria is picking up speed. The number of flu-like infections, including fever, cough, runny nose, and hoarseness, is still high, with the flu overlapping with Covid-19 and other respiratory diseases.
According to virologist Monika Redlberger-Fritz from MedUni Vienna, influenza virus activity has been on the rise in Austria in recent weeks. Virus sequencing in the first week of 2024 has shown a significant increase in influenza virus detections in clinical samples across Germany.
“Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses are largely circulating at the moment,” Redlberger-Fritz said. “These virus strains are contained in the influenza vaccinations, so vaccinated individuals are well protected against severe flu cases.”
The increase in influenza virus activity is not limited to Austria. Several other European countries, including Belgium, Croatia, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden, are also reporting widespread influenza virus activity. This increase in flu activity coincides with a decline in SARS-CoV-2 activity in these countries.
As the flu wave begins to sweep across Europe, health authorities are urging individuals to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from severe flu cases. With Covid-19 and the flu overlapping, it is more important than ever to take measures to stay healthy and minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses.
As the flu season continues, experts advise the public to stay vigilant and take preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, and getting vaccinated against influenza and Covid-19 to safeguard their health and well-being.]
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