The flu epidemic appears to have passed its peak, according to recent data released by the State Health Institute (SZÚ). While cases among children are declining, nine regions are reporting an increase in infections among adults aged 25-64.
The overall incidence of acute respiratory infections stands at 2,138 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, marking a 3.7% decrease from the second week of February. The Karlovy Vary region currently reports the highest number of cases, with numbers rising in nine other regions. These infections include both influenza and “flu-like” illnesses, with both type A and B influenza viruses currently circulating in the population.
According to Jan Kynčl, head of the Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at SZÚ, while overall flu-like illness cases have decreased by 4.4%, there’s a significant 38% increase among adults aged 25-64. He notes that this year’s epidemic is comparable to average patterns observed over the past two decades.
The impact of the epidemic has been substantial, with 272 severe cases requiring intensive care reported by February 14, 2025, resulting in 67 fatalities. Health authorities, led by Chief Hygienist Barbora Macková, continue to emphasize the importance of basic hygiene practices, including wearing masks and frequent hand washing.
Vaccination efforts have seen 730,000 people receive flu shots since September 2024, while over 300,000 have been vaccinated against COVID-19, with higher uptake among older populations.