Hospitals in Catalonia experience 'complicated' weeks as flu cases soar

Primary Health Centers (CAPs) in Catalonia are facing "complicated" weeks due to the increase in respiratory infections typical of this period, the Catalan Society of Family and Community Medicine (CAMFiC) warned. 

Jordi Mestres, a family doctor and representative of CAMFic, said that hospitals are facing "a lot of activity and pressure" due to reduced staff availability during the holidays and absences due to flu or Covid-19 among personnel. 

Cases of influenza have skyrocketed in recent days, and the incidence of the disease is the highest since the beginning of Covid-19, at 153 cases per 100,000 people. The high incidence of influenza in children under 4 years of age indicates that it is likely to continue to increase. 

Mestres predicts a post-Christmas increase in cases as people return to work and school next week. He noted that the peak of influenza, the predominant virus now, is expected in the second or third week of January. 

"On January 8, the 'return to reality' will begin, and probably the worst weeks will come in terms of activity. The staff will indeed recover, and we will experience it differently; we will have to reorganize to meet this increase in demand," he said. 

How to prevent infections   

The Health Ministry recommends a few tips to help prevent respiratory infections during these weeks of increased virus circulation.    

These include frequent and proper hand washing, covering the nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when sneezing or coughing, ventilating indoor spaces, using an approved mask if symptoms occur, limiting contacts, or staying home if unwell.    

For the elderly or those with chronic medical conditions, or if illness worsens, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.    

In addition, vaccination against influenza and Covid-19 is recommended for individuals in frail health or other indicated groups.