Luxembourg Health Authorities Say Flu Cases Likely Reaching Peak

On Thursday 6 February 2025, the Health Directorate of Luxembourg's Ministry of Health and Social Security published its weekly retrospective concerning the evolution of the main acute respiratory infections including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

From Monday 27 January to Sunday 2 February 2025, the number of influenza (flu) cases reported by laboratories increased slightly, from 2,448 to 2,509 cases, up 2% compared to the previous week. Infections remained "very common" among children and adolescents. However, the number of cases seems to be stabilising, which the authorities said suggests that the epidemic is approaching its peak - a trend to be confirmed the following week.

During the week in question, there were 56% influenza A and 44% influenza B among the typed results. According to the latest available data, the subtypes identified among the influenza A virus samples were A(H1)pdm9 (48.5%) and A(H3) (51.5%).

The health authorities reiterated the importance of adopting barrier gestures, as well as getting vaccinated, to limit the spread of the seasonal flu:

- wash hands regularly with soap and water for 30 seconds, carefully rubbing the palms, fingers, backs of  hands and under the nails;
- cover one's mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue is not available, use the crook of the elbow; 
- immediately throw used tissues in the 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 sick, to avoid contaminating those around;
- ventilate rooms regularly, at least three to four times a day for ten minutes.

Regarding RSV, the number of reported cases decreased by 3%, with 249 confirmed cases, compared to 258 the previous week. Infections mainly affected very young children and older people (aged 80+).

The health authorities also noted a slight decrease in the number of cases of COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2, from 77 to 76. This represents a decline of 1% over one week. The viral concentration detected in wastewater has also shown a decrease.