The number of cases of influenza and other respiratory viruses is expected to peak in the Balearic Islands next week due to the festivals in San Antoni and San Sebastian.
“We calculate that by the middle of next week we will reach the greatest peak in the number of influenza cases and therefore the greatest health impact,” said Jordi Reyna, head of the virology department at Parma’s Son Espaces hospital. .
Influenza is the main virus leading to an increase in hospitalizations in Balearic countries, and large numbers of people gathering for festivals are expected to cause further infections.
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The elderly and children are most at risk, with 75% of cases caused by influenza A, which primarily affects people over 65 (representing up to 90% of influenza patients in hospitals).
The other infection is caused by influenza B, which is by far the most common among children under 10 years of age.
Rena said the increase was “expected” as influenza B had the highest increase compared to last year and peaks every two years.
Some coronavirus cases have been detected, around three to four per week, along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which primarily affects children, but the peak has already passed.
Jordi Reyna also said that it is unfortunate that influenza and coronavirus vaccinations have not reached more than 50% of the population of the Balearic Islands.
“Every year we sit back and can’t figure out why we can’t improve vaccination rates,” he commented.
“I think people think that the flu is not a disease to be vaccinated against,” Reyna said, adding that 40% of people refuse to get vaccinated because they think the flu is “meaningless.” Cited research results.
The virologist said the Ministry of Health’s vaccination campaign was largely ineffective, and suggested that children should be vaccinated at school, given that only 30% of that age group has been vaccinated. are.
“It is important that when children catch the flu, they then infect the elderly, their siblings and family members. The flu begins and ends with them,” he stressed.