Testing activity, however, remains considerably higher than before the pandemic. Overall, respiratory virus activity across the EU/EEA region remains low.

COVID-19

A slight increase in COVID-19 cases has been observed domestically in recent weeks based on laboratory reports, though total case numbers remain low. In late May (weeks 20–21), a rise in cases was linked to an outbreak at Landspítali University Hospital. A further slight increase was recorded in weeks 23–24. In week 25 (June 16–22), 28 individuals were diagnosed (see table). Infection rates are still low compared to the pandemic period, suggesting that population immunity against severe illness remains widespread. Similar trends have been noted in several European countries with very limited impact on health care.

Nearly half of those diagnosed in week 25 were hospitalized at Landspitali University Hospital. According to physicians, most individuals diagnosed outside the hospital had mild or minimal symptoms.

The current pattern resembles the summer of 2024, when a wave of infections began in the spring and peaked in July. At that time, the highest weekly total occurred in week 28 (July 8–14), with 70 individuals testing positive (see figure). A similar wave may now be emerging.

Influenza

Influenza continues to be detected this summer. In early April, as the annual influenza season was subsiding, around 20 cases per week were diagnosed by Landspítali laboratory. Since mid-April, between 4 to 9 cases per week have continued to be reported (table).

Most recent cases have involved hospitalized patients at Landspítali and some hospital staff, though cases have also been identified outside the capital region. So far, 15 cases have been confirmed in week 26, with further results still pending.

While the incidence is low compared to the winter flu season, it is unusual for influenza to persist into the summer months in Iceland.

General Infection Prevention Measures

There is no reason for special measures, but we remind everyone of general infection precautions:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

• Limit contact with individuals showing symptoms of infection.

• Take extra precautions around vulnerable individuals if you have symptoms.

• Stay home while symptomatic and until you are clearly recovering and have been fever-free for at least 24 hours.

• Consider wearing a face mask in crowded places or when in close contact with vulnerable individuals if you have symptoms.

• Clean surfaces regularly and ensure good ventilation in common areas whenever possible.

The Chief Epidemiologist