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The flu in Spain is slowly starting to decline. This is evident from the latest report from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), the national institute for public health. However, this positive development does not apply to everyone. The number of infections has actually increased among people over 60. This ensures extra attention from health experts.
In the week of December 15 to 21, the total number of flu cases in Spain decreased slightly. The number of infections per 100,000 inhabitants went from 197.6 to 192.6. This indicates that the flu wave may have reached its peak. In several regions, such as Catalonia, the Basque Country and Galicia, the situation is stable or even improved.
Experts emphasize that these figures are a national average. This means that the situation may differ per region and per age group. That is why it remains important to closely monitor the figures per group.
Increase in infections among people over 60
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An opposite trend is visible among people aged 60 and over. The number of flu cases has clearly increased in the group aged 60 to 69 years. There were also more infections among 70 to 79 year olds than a week earlier. There was a smaller increase among people over 80, but the upward trend is also visible there.
On average, older people still get the flu less often than younger people. But the consequences are often more serious for them. They more often suffer from complications such as pneumonia and recovery usually takes longer.
Hospital admissions remain stable
The number of people hospitalized due to flu has changed little. A slight increase was seen among the elderly and young children, while other groups ended up in hospital less often.
The report shows that approximately one in five admitted patients develops pneumonia. Intensive care is required in a small number of cases. This underlines that flu is certainly not a harmless disease, especially for vulnerable people.
Most common complaints with flu
The most commonly reported symptoms of flu are coughing, fever, sore throat, nasal congestion and a general ill feeling. These symptoms occur in almost all age groups. In the elderly, the complaints often last longer. In many cases they are also more serious.
Cautiously positive signal
The decrease in the total number of flu cases is a positive signal. Still, experts warn that the situation could change quickly, especially around holidays when people come together more. Caution remains important for the elderly and people in poor health.
Health authorities recommend good hygiene, such as washing hands and avoiding contact in case of complaints. For risk groups, vaccination remains an important way to prevent serious consequences of flu.
