Luxembourg's flu epidemic has passed its peak: the number of illnesses has fallen by 19 per cent
Usman Yousaf, Unsplash
The Luxembourg Ministry of Health has published fresh data on the spread of respiratory infections for the period from 3 to 9 February 2025 (6th week of the year). Influenza, RSV and COVID-19 viruses show a downward trend, but experts warn that seasonal activity remains high.
During the week, the number of laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza decreased from 2,521 to 2,034 (-19%). The greatest number of infections was observed among children and adolescents. The proportion of influenza B (54%) exceeded influenza A (46%) for the first time, confirming a change in the circulating strain.
Among influenza A subtypes, 55.2 per cent of cases were H3N2 and 44.8 per cent were H1N1pdm9. Although the statistics indicate that the peak of the epidemic has passed, final conclusions can be drawn next week.
The number of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases decreased from 252 to 217 cases (-14%). Young children and elderly people over 80 years of age remain at risk.
The number of new COVID-19 cases decreased from 76 to 58 (-24%). However, data from wastewater analyses indicate an increase in viral concentration, which may indicate latent circulation of infection.
In the latest genetic analysis, two JN.1 sub-variants, XEC (46.5%) and KP.3 (40.2%), were dominant in November 2024.
Despite the decrease in the incidence of the disease, the respiratory infection season in Luxembourg continues, so precautions are still relevant.
