Respiratory Infections. Week 42, 2024

There were occasional cases of influenza and RSV reported over the summer and early fall. In week 42, three people were diagnosed with influenza, all between the ages of 15-64, and all with influenza type A(H3). Three children, aged 1-2 years, were diagnosed with RSV.

In week 42, 11 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 at the National University Hospital, 10 of whom were 65 or older. No one was hospitalized with influenza or RSV.

Autumn vaccinations continue at health clinics and other locations. The Chief Epidemiologist encourages people in high-risk groups to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19.

Whooping Cough

The number of whooping cough diagnoses has significantly decreased since the outbreak in the spring. In week 42, eight people were diagnosed with whooping cough: one child aged 5-14, four individuals aged 15-64, and three people aged 65 and older. All were diagnosed through clinical assessment. No one was hospitalized with whooping cough in week 42. One person was hospitalized in week 41.

Other Respiratory Viruses

Rhinovirus (the common cold) continues to be the most frequently detected respiratory virus at the Department of Microbiology and Virology at the National University Hospital. In the past month, 30-40 rhinovirus cases have been diagnosed weekly. More information is available on the hospital’s website.

Situation in Europe

Influenza and RSV diagnoses remain low in EU/EEA countries. More COVID-19 cases are being detected compared to influenza and RSV, but the weekly number of COVID-19 cases is still lower than during the summer. People aged 65 and older are at the highest risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Many countries have begun their autumn vaccination campaigns, and older adults and high-risk groups are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. More information can be found on the website of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

The Chief Epidemiologist