The number of influenza infection cases in Latvia has increased over the past week and indicates high activity of the influenza virus. Covid-19 infection cases, on the other hand, are showing downward-facing trends.
According to monitoring data from the Disease Prevention and Control Centre (SPKC), the spread of influenza increased to 407.3 cases per 100 000 residents, which is more than a week prior, when influenza intensity was at 312.6, SPKC notes.
Last week, flu was confirmed for 284 people, which is 66 cases more than a week before.
In the previous week, the number of influenza infections increased in the under 14 age group, while among adults aged 15 to 65 years, the infection numbers remained at an average level.
Flu cases were recorded in all ten monitoring areas last week. The highest intensity of influenza was recorded in Liepaja, where 33 cases of influenza were reported. Next up is Jekabpils with 25 recorded cases of influenza. Infection cases were also registered in Riga, Jurmala, Jelgava, Daugavpils, Gulbene county, Rēzekne, Ventspils and Valmiera.
Last week, 614 patients were tested for flu in hospitals. The predominant influenza A-virus was identified in 52 patients and the type B-virus in 29 patients.
Last week there were also seven death reports for patients with confirmed influenza infection. All of them were older than 50 and suffered from several other illnesses on top of flu.
Since the start of the flu season, a total of 28 deaths have been reported for patients with confirmed influenza A-virus infection. All of those people were over the age of 50. All were diagnosed with a number of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other risk factors.
Last week, 993 Covid-19 tests were conducted, which is more than a week earlier, when 814 tests were conducted. Covid-19 infection was confirmed in 3.1% of cases, the lowest rate since the start of the season.
Last week, a total of 54 patients with Covid-19 infection were undergoing treatment in hospitals. Four deaths among Covid-19 patients were also recorded last week.
SPKC reminds that state-paid flu vaccination is currently available to every Latvian resident, as the range of its recipients has been expanded. Similarly, medical institutions can use vaccines in their stocks to vaccinate patients outside of risk groups as well.
Vaccination is especially recommended for seniors and people suffering from chronic diseases. It is also recommended to vaccinate those who are scheduled to undergo surgery and are expected to stay in the hospital.