Health officials in Dolj County, Romania, report that influenza activity remains at a manageable level as of . While the flu season is underway, current data indicate activity is categorized as “sporadic,” meaning it has not yet reached epidemic proportions.
According to a press release from the Dolj County Public Health Directorate (DSP), during the fifth week of 2026, a total of 2,151 cases of acute respiratory infections were recorded. This figure breaks down into 1,498 cases of Acute Respiratory Infections of the Upper Respiratory Tract (IACRS), 408 cases of acute pneumonia, and 245 confirmed cases of influenza. All confirmed influenza cases were identified as influenza type A through rapid antigen testing.
The cases presented to healthcare facilities in a variety of settings. Seventy-five patients required hospitalization, while 49 were treated on an outpatient basis. An additional 121 cases were managed by family physicians. The majority of influenza cases, approximately 80%, were classified as mild, with the remainder considered moderate. Importantly, health officials report no cases of severe influenza or influenza-related deaths to date.
The total number of respiratory illnesses and influenza cases reported during this week represents a decrease compared to the same period last year (4,378 cases) and a decrease from the previous week (2,164 cases). The incidence rate for IACRS was 222.50 per 10,000 population, for influenza it was 36.39 per 10,000 population, and for pneumonia it was 60.60 per 10,000 population. Hospitalizations accounted for 14.50% of all reported cases.
Vaccination efforts are ongoing, with 61,776 individuals in Dolj County vaccinated against influenza as of . Vaccination is being administered according to national guidelines (Order MS 3120/2023), with vaccines prescribed, dispensed, and reimbursed for individuals in at-risk groups through their family physicians.
The DSP Dolj characterizes the current week as experiencing “sporadic” influenza activity due to the demonstrated circulation of influenza viruses within the population. This designation reflects a level of activity that, while present, does not yet indicate a widespread outbreak.
Influenza surveillance is a critical public health function, and its importance is underscored by the unpredictable nature of each influenza season. As highlighted by surveillance efforts in the State of Michigan, a collaborative effort between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local health departments, year-round monitoring is essential. This surveillance aims to determine when and where flu activity is occurring, identify circulating influenza viruses, detect changes in those viruses, and measure the impact of influenza on healthcare systems.
Michigan’s surveillance system utilizes multiple data sources, including laboratory surveillance, the Michigan Disease Surveillance System (MDSS), sentinel laboratories, and syndromic surveillance. The CDC also provides a weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report, offering a national overview of influenza activity.
National and regional monitoring, such as that provided by Flustar.com, utilizes a severity index to provide a broader picture of influenza activity across the United States. These resources offer breakdowns of conditions at both national and local levels, and are updated regularly to reflect the progression of the season.
While the situation in Dolj County appears stable at present, continued vigilance and adherence to preventative measures remain crucial. Individuals, particularly those in at-risk groups, are encouraged to consider vaccination and practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes. The sporadic nature of the current activity does not preclude the possibility of increased transmission as the flu season progresses, making ongoing monitoring and proactive public health strategies essential.
The CDC’s FluView report provides ongoing updates on influenza activity across the United States, offering valuable information for healthcare professionals and the public alike. Staying informed about local and national trends is a key component of protecting oneself and the community from the potential impact of influenza.
