Flu cases on the rise in Catalonia with peak expected in two weeks

Flu cases in Catalonia are increasing sharply, with 294 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, surpassing moderate transmission levels.

Jacobo Mendioroz, deputy director of epidemiological surveillance, said that flu cases are expected to intensify in the coming week, and predicted the peak of cases will come in the next two weeks.

On Tuesday, he highlighted the need to protect the elderly, and urged higher vaccination rates among the population, noting the strong match this season between vaccines and circulating strains.

This year’s flu season began later than usual, potentially delaying the peak. Primary care data shows a rise in flu diagnoses to 155 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with around 69% of cases over the age of 60 being hospitalized. 

Bronchiolitis caused by the respiratory syncytial virus is stabilizing, marking the end of its epidemic phase. Vaccination efforts for infants significantly reduced its impact.

Meanwhile, Covid-19 transmissions remain at baseline levels.

Healthcare services normally face increased pressure during the flu season, but currently the situation remains manageable.

Hospitals in Lleida, Tarragona, and Sabadell report higher activity but no critical saturation.

Vaccination coverage

Among those over 80, 64% have received the flu vaccine, while the rate for people aged 70–79 is 51%. Similar coverage is reported for COVID-19 vaccinations.

Mendioroz acknowledges these rates align with previous years but reiterated the importance of higher coverage, particularly given this year’s effective vaccine match.