The Health Department publishes its weekly retrospective concerning 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
For the fourth consecutive week, the number of flu cases declared by laboratories is continuously increasing. This week, the number of cases increased from 190 to 350, an increase of 84% from 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 and 190 cases in week 49.
These figures confirm the start of the annual wave of seasonal flu. The Ministry of Health and Social Security reminds that it is still possible to be vaccinated to protect yourself 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 to protect yourself more 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, scrubbing palms, fingers, backs of hands and under nails thoroughly.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, use the crook of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash immediately and then wash your hands.
- Avoid physical contact such as hugs, kisses and handshakes.
- Avoid crowds and gatherings during the epidemic season.
- Stay home if you are sick to avoid contaminating those around you.
- Ventilate the rooms regularly, at least 3 to 4 times a day for 10 minutes.
By following these simple actions, you help protect your health and that of others.
COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2: increasing number of cases
During week 50, from December 9 to 15, 2024, the number of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases increases from 76 to 98 cases, an increase of 29% compared to the previous week.
Viral concentration detected in wastewater showed a slight increase [1].
The latest available sequencing data reveals that the KP.3 variant remained predominant in October.[2]
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): increasing number of cases
For RSV, an increase of 24% was observed, with 226 confirmed cases, compared to 182 the previous week.
Communicated by the Ministry of Health and Social Security
[1] https://www.list.lu/fr/covid-19/coronastep/
[2] https://lns.lu/publications/
