Flu Numbers Falling: No Epidemic Expected
- This article provides an update on the circulation of influenza (including the H3N2 variant, sometimes referred to as "super flu") and the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in the...
- During the last week of December 2023, General Practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands collected 45 samples from patients presenting with flu-like symptoms.
- According to available information, the current flu vaccines appear to be effective against the H3N2 variant circulating in the Netherlands.
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Flu and Respiratory Virus Update: Netherlands, December 2023/January 2024
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This article provides an update on the circulation of influenza (including the H3N2 variant, sometimes referred to as “super flu”) and the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in the Netherlands, based on data collected in late December 2023 and early January 2024. It is indeed anchored to the current date of 2024/12/24 17:09:06 and will be updated as new information becomes available.
Influenza Activity
During the last week of December 2023, General Practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands collected 45 samples from patients presenting with flu-like symptoms. Laboratory analysis confirmed influenza in nine of these samples. Of those nine confirmed cases, four were identified as the H3N2 variant, which has been circulating in the Netherlands for several months and has prompted warnings from the National Health Service (NHS) in Great Britain, where it is sometimes called the “super flu.”
According to available information, the current flu vaccines appear to be effective against the H3N2 variant circulating in the Netherlands. H3N2 influenza typically causes more severe symptoms than a common cold, though the symptoms are similar.
Flu case numbers decreased among children aged 0 to 14 and adults aged 65 and over. However, ther was a slight increase in flu symptoms reported among adults between the ages of 15 and 44.
The previous flu epidemic in the Netherlands began in mid-January and lasted for nine weeks.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
In addition to influenza,nine cases of RSV were identified among the samples tested. RSV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in adults,but can lead to severe respiratory infections in infants.
The number of detected RSV cases is lower than observed during the same period in previous years. The Netherlands’ National Institute for Public Health and the environment (RIVM) suggests this decrease may be linked to the recent introduction of immunization vaccines against RSV for infants.
Last winter, pediatric Intensive Care Units (ICUs) were overwhelmed with children suffering from respiratory complications following RSV infection, leading to the postponement of planned surgeries and treatments. This year, the spread of RSV appears to be starting later, and there are currently fewer children requiring ICU admission.
A spokesperson for the RIVM described the current situation as “hopeful,” but cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions based on these early figures.
Looking Ahead
While the initial data is encouraging, ongoing monitoring is crucial to assess the long-term impact of the RSV immunization program and the effectiveness of flu vaccines against circulating variants. The RIVM will continue to track influenza and RSV activity throughout the winter season.
Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to consult their GP and consider getting vaccinated if they haven’t already done so. Parents of infants should discuss RSV immunization options with their pediatrician.