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).
Flu (Influenza): increase in the number of cases
The number of influenza cases reported by laboratories increased from 561 to 746 cases, an increase of 33% compared to the previous week.
During the last week, there were 83% influenza A and 17% influenza B among the typed results. Among influenza A virus samples, the subtypes identified are A(H1) pdm9 (40%) and A(H3) (60%).
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.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): decrease in the number of cases
For RSV, a decrease of 13% was observed, with 168 confirmed cases, compared to 192 the previous week.
COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2: increasing number of cases
During week 1, from December 30, 2024 to January 5, 2025, the number of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases increases, from 55 to 65 cases, an increase of 18% compared to the previous week.
The latest available sequencing data reveals that two JN.1 sub-variants, the XEC variant (46.5%) and the KP.3 variant (40.2%), predominated in November[1].
Communicated by the Ministry of Health and Social Security
[1] https://lns.lu/publications/
