Vienna Health Association warns: Influenza is often underestimated

In 2024, approximately 1,800 patients with influenza were admitted to the Vienna Health Association. A considerable number, considering that a ward has about 32 beds, said Marton Széll from the Donaustadt Clinic.

New Influenza Variant Could Be More Contagious

"Initial data shows that the current virus variant could be more contagious, so we expect the peak of the influenza wave as early as December - a vaccination can still provide good protection now," said the interim head of the emergency department with infection clinic. In the majority of cases from last year, the infection was the main diagnosis, thus the reason for admission. 62 percent of the inpatients were over 60 years old, 14 percent were children under ten years old. Influenza can therefore also cause severe courses in children. The Austrian vaccination plan thus recommends vaccination from the 6th month of life for all people.

Influenza Peak Likely Already in December

In England, the influenza wave is particularly strong this year due to a new variant. There are already indications that the season could develop similarly in Austria. Additionally, the infection wave usually reaches its peak in January, but this year it could already be evident from mid to late December. This is because influenza viruses were detected in wastewater two to four weeks earlier than usual in the current season.

Vienna Health Association Prepared for More Influenza Cases

"The problem with the mutation is that it can be transmitted more easily," explained Széll. As a result, around 20 percent more people could fall ill this year, and the clinics could feel a higher burden. "We have already made all the necessary preparations in the Vienna Health Association." Despite everything, the specialist in infectious diseases and tropical medicine does not expect a century wave. How well the current vaccine works against this variant can only be answered after the season, according to Széll. This is because the mutation only affects one of the three influenza virus types included in the vaccine.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.