As autumn settles in, the Czech Republic is witnessing a steady increase in respiratory illnesses, with children and the elderly bearing the brunt of the seasonal surge. According to recent data from the State Health Institute (SZÚ), while the overall number of acute respiratory diseases remained relatively stable last week, certain age groups are experiencing notable upticks.
The statistics paint a clear picture: out of every 100,000 people, 1,323 are currently battling respiratory ailments. The highest incidence is observed among children under five years old, with a staggering 3,257 cases per 100,000 individuals in this age group. In stark contrast, adults aged 24 to 65 show a much lower rate of 739 cases per 100,000, while seniors over 65 report about 700 cases per 100,000.
Geographically, the South Moravian and Karlovy Vary regions, along with the Vysočina region, are experiencing the highest rates of illness. South Moravia, in particular, has crossed the epidemic threshold with 1,845 cases per 100,000 people, surpassing the 1,600 to 1,700 case range that typically signals an epidemic.
Health authorities are taking a proactive stance. The SZÚ emphasizes that while the respiratory infection season is developing as expected, an increase in both upper and lower respiratory tract infections is anticipated in the coming period. They strongly advocate for vaccination, adherence to hygiene practices, and considerate behavior, including wearing masks or respirators in healthcare facilities and crowded areas.
On a positive note, COVID-19 cases have seen a slight decline, with new confirmed cases dropping from 7,099 to 5,462 in the past week. Vaccination efforts continue, with over 150,000 people receiving COVID-19 shots and more than 380,000 getting flu vaccines since the beginning of September. Health experts stress that it’s still an opportune time for vaccination, with vaccination centers readily available across the country.