Headline: Spain‘s Seasonal Flu Returns with a Dominant Type B Strain
After years of disruption due to the pandemic, seasonal flu is back in Spain, following a familiar pattern. The end of 2024 marks the start of a flu epidemic, with the type B virus prevailing.
Subhead: Flu Epidemic Triggers in Multiple Spanish Regions as Type B Virus Targets Children and Compromises the Elderly
The average flu ratio has surged to 35.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, a notable increase from the previous week’s 24.1. While the epidemic threshold stands at 36 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, this mark has been exceeded in regions like Madrid, Cantabria, and Castilla y León. Other regions, such as Valencia, Galicia, and Aragón, are nearing this point.
The Rise of Flu B
The current epidemic is dominated by the type B virus, which predominantly affects humans. Regions like the Basque Country and Aragón report high percentages of positive tests for flu B. This variant seems to target children more, while adults and the elderly are less susceptible. However, flu B can still have severe consequences for elderly individuals with chronic conditions, such as lung and heart diseases. Hospitalizations are mainly seen in people over 80 years old, often with complications like pneumonia.
This age distribution aligns with previous seasons, although there’s a slight increase in the group over 80 years old due to population aging and the accumulation of co-morbidities. Pneumonia is the most common complication, affecting 25% of hospitalized cases and 3% of elderly patients admitted to the intensive care unit.
Symptoms and COVID-19 Confusion
Flu B shares symptoms with COVID-19, including fatigue, fever, and coughing, making differentiation difficult without a test. Interestingly, recent studies suggest that loss of smell is more common in flu cases than in current COVID variants. For those experiencing flu-like symptoms, it’s likely that they have the flu. Precautionary measures include wearing masks, staying hydrated, and avoiding antibiotics, as they are ineffective against viruses.
Vaccination and Hospital Pressure
Currently, flu is not causing significant pressure on hospitals, with a hospitalization rate of 0.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. However, vaccinations are crucial, especially for at-risk groups. The World Health Organization recommends vaccines targeting two flu A variants and one flu B variant this year. Although vaccines may not prevent transmission entirely, they can decrease the risk of severe illness.
Read Also: Flu Epidemic Paralyzes Healthcare Centers in Spain
