Romania warns of rising flu

The Romanian health authorities have expressed concerns after a three-week increase in cases of respiratory infections. From 20 to 26 January, the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) recorded 133,600 cases of influenza-related respiratory infections, representing an increase of more than 6% compared to the previous week. This increase has led to concerns regarding the strain on the Romanian healthcare system, particularly in regions such as Bucharest, Cluj, and Brasov. The death toll stands at 22, including a three-year-old boy, with Health Minister Alexandru Rafila, stating that all fatalities were among individuals unvaccinated against the flu. The vaccination rate in Romania remains low, with only 1.13 million people having received the influenza vaccine as of 26 January. Health authorities are urging the adult population to take preventive measures, including obtaining a flu vaccine. Hospitals across the country have been instructed to limit the number of visitors to limit the spread of the influenza virus, said Cristina Geormaneanu, spokesperson for the Craiova County Emergency Hospital. Preventive measures have also been implemented in public places and schools, including epidemiological screening in all educational facilities. Teachers and students exhibiting symptoms are required to self-isolate.