TEH’influenza continues its advance in Italy. In the last monitored week, from November 24th to December 1stthe incidence of flu-like syndromes has increased slightly compared to the previous 7 days, reaching 8.1 cases per thousand assisted (it was 7.9 in the previous week), but it is growing more slowly than last season (in the same period of 2023 it was in fact at 11.5 per thousand). It is the picture that emerges fromthe latest RespiVirNet surveillance bulletinaccording to which Italians put to bed by seasonal viruses in the 7 days considered were around 477 thousandfor a total of approximately 2 million 766 thousand cases since the start of surveillance.
children under 5 years of age are most affected of age with an incidence of 19.4 cases per thousand assisted (it was 18 in the previous week), highlights the bulletin published on the integrated surveillance portal of the Higher Institute of Health (ISS).
“The number of flu-like syndromes is supported not only by influenza viruses, but also by other respiratory viruses”, the experts point out. From the overall data it can be seen that “during the third week of virological surveillance for the 2024-2025 season, the circulation of influenza viruses remains at low levels, even though slightly increasing compared to the previous week”.
The incidence in the regions
In all italian regions adn autonomous provinces the incidence level is above the baseline threshold, except in Valle D’Aosta (3.03 cases per thousand assisted), in the autonomous province of Bolzano (1.49), in the autonomous province of Trento (2.65), in Friuli-Venezia Giulia (4.13), in Liguria (5.55) and in Molise (1.38).While the highest incidence is found in Lombardy (10.24), followed by Abruzzo (9.43). Basilicata and Calabria have not yet activated RespiVirNet surveillance, the bulletin states, and experts point out that the data in some regions is strongly influenced by the small number of doctors and pediatricians who have currently sent the facts.
The age groups
Looking at the age groups,between 5 and 14 years the incidence is 7.75 cases per thousand assisted, and rises to 8.37 in the 15-64 age group, the second highest figure after that of the under 5s, who remain as usual the most affected. the over 65s are in the queue, among whom the incidence is 4.80 cases per thousand assisted.
What viruses are circulating?
What viruses are circulating? Out of 1,426 clinical samples received from the various laboratories belonging to the RespiVirNet network, 35 (2.4%) tested positive for the influenza virus, 30 of type A (21 of subtype H1N1pdm09, 5 H3N2 and 4 not yet subtyped) and 5 of type B Among the samples analyzed, there were 52 (3.6%) tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus Rsv, 46. (3.2%) to Sars-CoV-2, and the remaining 362 tested positive for other respiratory viruses, of which: 236 (16.5%) rhinoviruses, 46 adenoviruses, 32 parainfluenza viruses, 32 human coronaviruses other than Sars- CoV-2, 8 bocaviruses and 8 metapneumoviruses.
How can individuals get involved in grassroots climate action movements?
interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert in the Field
Setting: A virtual meeting room, equipped with a soft background and a welcoming atmosphere. The editor of Time.News, Sarah, sits in front of her computer with a cup of coffee, ready to engage with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in climate science.
Sarah (Editor of Time.News): Good afternoon, Dr. Carter! Thank you for joining us today. I’m excited to discuss the pressing issues surrounding climate change and the recent developments in the field. How are you?
Dr. Emily Carter: Afternoon, Sarah! I’m doing well, thank you.I’m glad to be hear and discuss a topic that’s so vital for our future.
Sarah: let’s dive right in. With the recent COP meetings and the ongoing discussions about climate action, what are some key takeaways you think the public should be aware of?
Dr. Carter: Great question. One of the biggest takeaways is the urgency of the situation. The science is clear – we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 50% by 2030 if we want to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.This requires not just government action, but also individual and corporate responsibility.
Sarah: It sounds daunting! But I feel like many people are becoming apathetic because the problem seems so enormous. How can we spark a sense of urgency and encourage action at the grassroots level?
Dr.Carter: That’s an important challenge we face. Education is crucial. We need to communicate the possible impacts of climate change in relatable terms. local stories—like how rising sea levels may affect a town—can resonate more than global statistics. Moreover,promoting community initiatives,like local carbon reduction projects,can empower individuals to take action.
Sarah: Absolutely. Speaking of stories, I’ve noticed a rise in climate activism, notably among younger generations. Do you think social media is enhancing this movement?
dr. carter: Definitely! Social media platforms allow activists to share details, mobilize supporters, and hold corporations and governments accountable.The speed at which news spreads can definitely help amplify voices that might or else be overlooked, especially in marginalized communities. This generational shift is inspiring and crucial for advocating change.
Sarah: We’ve seen some high-profile campaigns and movements gaining momentum. Are there any that stand out to you as particularly effective or innovative?
Dr. Carter: One that comes to mind is the fridays for Future movement, started by greta Thunberg. It’s been incredibly impactful in drawing attention to climate issues. Similarly, local initiatives like community gardens or clean-up drives can have a pronounced local effect, inspiring others to engage in enduring practices. The creativity in these movements truly is encouraging.
Sarah: It’s fascinating how grassroots efforts complement larger policy changes. Now, what role does technology play in combating climate change today?
Dr. Carter: Technology is a game-changer. Innovations like renewable energy sources—solar, wind, and even emerging technologies like carbon capture—offer tangible solutions. On a broader scale, using AI to analyze climate data can help us understand trends and predict future changes, allowing us to prepare more effectively.
Sarah: That’s inspiring.As we look towards the future, what do you believe are the most critical steps we must take in the next five years?
Dr.Carter: We need to prioritize policies that support renewable energy transition, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect our natural ecosystems—forests, wetlands, and marine environments. Additionally, international cooperation is key; climate change knows no borders, and collective action can lead to more significant impact.
Sarah: those are powerful insights. before we wrap up, what would you say to someone who feels overwhelmed by the scale of climate change and unsure of where to begin?
Dr. Carter: Start small! Every action counts. Whether it’s reducing waste, using public transport, or advocating for policy changes in your community, each step is vital.It’s also about collective effort—joining groups or local initiatives can amplify your impact.Remember, every person has the power to make a difference!
Sarah: Thank you so much for your time today, Dr. Carter. Your insights are invaluable, and I hope our audience feels inspired to take action, no matter how small.
Dr. Carter: Thank you, Sarah! It’s been a pleasure discussing this, and I hope we can continue to raise awareness and inspire change together.
Sarah: Absolutely—let’s keep the conversation going!
[The interview concludes with both smiling, while the screen fades out, set to air on Time.News as part of their special climate series.]