The latest bulletin from the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS) has revealed concerning information about the current state of flu-like syndromes in Italy. According to Anna Teresa Palamara, director of the Infectious Diseases department at ISS, the incidence of flu-like syndromes remains high, with the analysis of positive samples showing a prevalence of influenza viruses. Despite this, a significant share of Sars-CoV2 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains, particularly affecting children with bronchiolitis.
The bulletin, published on 5 January, reported an incidence of 17.5 cases of syndromes per thousand patients flu-like in Italy, with a slightly increasing trend in children under 5 years of age. In addition, all regions in Italy have reported a level of incidence of flu-like syndromes above the baseline threshold, with some regions reaching a “very high” intensity threshold.
The situation in hospitals has also become more serious, with the Italian Federation of Health and Hospital Companies (Fiaso) reporting a slight decline in Covid admissions, but an increase in the most serious forms of influenza accompanied by pneumonia. The elderly and frail populations are particularly at risk, but young people and adults are also affected. Giovanni Migliore, president of Fiaso, explained that influenza viruses are having a greater impact in absolute terms, especially on the elderly and frail population, leading to a significant number of hospitalizations.
The situation is particularly serious in the province of Mantua, where the Carlo Poma hospital has reported a high number of adults in serious conditions due to influenza pneumonia, along with many cases of bronchiolitis among children.
Given this situation, the ISS has recommended healthy prudence in behavior, particularly for those with respiratory symptoms and those in the presence of very young children, elderly or frail people. Vaccinations are also recommended for those for whom they are applicable. With the reopening of schools potentially contributing to sustained circulation of viruses in the coming weeks, it is important for individuals to take necessary precautions to avoid the further spread of flu-like syndromes.
