The number of people with influenza has reached a level that officially constitutes an epidemic. Cases surpassed the established threshold last week and remained high for a second consecutive week. Consequently, health officials have now confirmed the start of the outbreak.
During the past week, 59 per 100,000 people visited their GP with flu-like symptoms. This figure rose from 51 visits the previous week. Because the official threshold for an epidemic stands at 46 consultations per 100,000 people, the current figures clearly exceed the limit. However, the declaration of an epidemic does not trigger immediate changes in healthcare operations.
This year’s epidemic arrived later than last season. Last year, the outbreak began in late January and reached a much higher peak. That peak occurred in early February with 118 consultations per 100,000 people. Eventually, that epidemic ended in late March.
Researchers do not rely solely on GP visits to confirm an epidemic. They also measure how often they find the influenza virus in physical samples. This step is vital because other pathogens can also cause flu-like symptoms. Currently, these laboratory samples show a clear increase in the presence of the influenza virus.
Most people do not visit a doctor when they have the flu. Nevertheless, a minority of vulnerable patients usually do seek medical help. Therefore, these statistics provide a reliable overview of how the virus spreads throughout the country.
The influenza virus causes the flu. After infection, patients may suffer from coughing, fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. While most people recover on their own, certain groups face higher risks. These groups include people over 60 and those with diabetes or lung disease. According to the RIVM, flu-related complications cause approximately 4,700 deaths annually.
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