How is it determined whether the epidemic has started?
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“We determine this based on the number of consultations for flu cases with the GP. We use a certain threshold,” said Steven Van Gucht in ‘The World Today’ on Radio 1.
“We are now well above fifty flu consultations per hundred thousand inhabitants per week. And that is the threshold above which we call it a flu epidemic.”
Is the flu epidemic earlier than normal?
“Last year it even started a little earlier. So that happens more often, that it starts in December. But it is true that there are also seasons that it only starts in January and sometimes even in February. So you can speak of a fairly early season, but not abnormally early.”
Can virologists already predict how bad the flu season will be?
“No, that is difficult to say. We can look at a number of other countries, such as the United Kingdom. It has been going on there for more than a month. And then you still see average activity at the moment. That is not exceptionally high, but exceptionally early.”
“At the moment we do not immediately have any reason to think that the flu season will be very difficult. We do expect many flu cases, because there is also a new variant that is circulating.”
“The flu will cause the classic symptoms. Very annoying for most people, but after one or two weeks they have largely recovered. People in a risk group can sometimes develop complications and we occasionally see hospitalizations.”
Also read: Flu epidemic has broken out: Marc Van Ranst has no good news for the coming weeks
What should we do to avoid contamination at the festive table?
“If you are sick yourself, it is best to stay at home. Otherwise, you can wear a face mask and definitely keep your distance. Above all, try not to infect others. If you feel that something is brewing within yourself, it is better to keep some distance, especially from people who belong to a risk group.”
“Ventilate well, regularly open windows or a door so that fresh air enters the room and the old air is replaced. Virus particles can gradually build up in it.”
