Flu graph week 51, 2024;

The Health Directorate of Luxembourg's Ministry of Health and Social Security has published its weekly retrospective report on the evolution of the main acute respiratory infections, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Arrival of the seasonal flu wave: vaccination, your best protection

During week 51, from Monday 16 to Sunday 22 December 2024, and for the fifth consecutive week, the number of cases of influenza reported by laboratories has been steadily increasing. This week, the number of cases increased from 375 to 745, an increase of 99% compared to the previous week. This progression is part of a constant growth trend observed since week 47, when there were 60 cases, followed by 114 cases in week 48, 190 cases in week 49 and 375 cases in week 50. Over the last five weeks, there have been 82% influenza A and 18% influenza B among the results. Among the influenza A virus samples, the subtypes identified are A(H1) pdm9 (46%) and A(H3) (54%).

These figures reconfirm the start of the annual wave of seasonal flu. The Ministry of Health and Social Security has issued a reminder that it is still possible to get vaccinated to protect oneself effectively and limit the spread of the virus. Vaccination remains the most reliable way to prevent seasonal flu and reduce the risk of associated complications.

How can one better protect oneself against seasonal flu?

In addition to vaccination, it is essential to adopt barrier gestures to limit the spread of the virus:

- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for 30 seconds, carefully rubbing one's palms, fingers, backs of one's hands and under one's nails.
- Cover one's mouth and nose with a tissue when one coughs or sneezes. If one does not have a tissue, use the crook of one's elbow.
- Immediately throw used tissues in a bin and then wash one's hands.
- Avoid physical contact such as hugs, kisses and handshakes.
-  Avoid crowds and gatherings during the epidemic season.
- Stay home if one is sick to avoid contaminating those around.
- Ventilate rooms regularly, at least three to four times a day for ten minutes.

By following these simple actions, one helps protect one's health and that of others.

COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2: Slight increase in the number of cases

During week 51, from 16 to 22 December 2024, the number of positive cases of SARS-CoV-2 increased slightly, from 98 to 109 cases, an increase of 11% compared to the previous week.

The viral concentration detected in wastewater showed a slight increase.