Credit: MSSS
On Thursday 13 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).
During week 6, from Monday 3 to Sunday 9 February 2025, the number of influenza (flu) cases reported by laboratories decreased from 2,251 to 2,034 cases, a drop of 19% compared to the previous week. Infections are very common among children and adolescents. This decrease suggests that the peak of the epidemic, especially that of influenza A, has passed.
During the last week, there were 46% influenza A and 54% influenza B among the typed results.
In addition to vaccination, the health authorities reported it is essential to adopt barrier gestures to limit the spread of the flu virus:
- wash one's hands regularly with soap and water for 30 seconds, carefully rubbing one's palms, fingers, backs of hands and under nails;
- cover one's mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If one does not have a tissue, use the crook of one's 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.
The authorities said following these simple steps can help protect one's health and that of others.
Moreover, a decrease of 14% was reported for RSV with 217 confirmed cases, compared to 252 the previous week. Infections are reported to mainly affect young children and people over 80 years of age.
The health authorities also reported that the number of positive SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) cases is decreasing, from 76 to 58 cases, down 24% compared to the previous week. However, the viral concentration detected in wastewater has shown an increase.
HOM
