The flu epidemic in Czechia has likely reached its peak, according to the National Institute of Public Health.
Compared to the previous week, the incidence of various acute respiratory infections decreased by 1.4% last week, reaching 2,219 patients per 100,000 residents. The number of cases is declining among children and young people, while it is still slightly increasing in older age groups.
“Despite the slight decline in acute respiratory infections, it’s important to remember that spring break may distort the numbers,” said Chief Hygienist Barbora Maková. The incidence continues to rise in six regions, particularly in the Ústí nad Labem and Vysočina regions, as well as in Karlovy Vary, Liberec, Olomouc, and Zlín.
Influenza A and B viruses remain the most commonly detected in laboratory samples examined by the SZÚ. According to the Ministry of Health, 23 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19, one of whom is in intensive care. Since September of last year, 294 COVID-related deaths have been recorded.
Experts emphasize that vaccination is the best way to prevent severe cases of these infectious diseases. Since autumn, 730,000 people have received flu vaccines, and 300,000 have been vaccinated against pertussis. This means that less than 7% of the population has been vaccinated against the flu this season, while among the elderly, the rate is about one-fifth in the long term. The average European vaccination rate is 48%.
