Flu cases reach epidemic levels as infections continue to rise

Influenza cases have risen to levels that officially constitute an epidemic. The number of infections first crossed the designated threshold a week ago. With cases remaining above that limit for a second consecutive week, the epidemic has now begun.

Over the past week, 59 people per 100,000 with flu symptoms consulted a GP, up from 51 the previous week. The epidemic threshold is set at 46 GP visits per 100,000. Announcing an epidemic does not directly affect the healthcare system.

This year’s epidemic is beginning later than last year's. At the end of January 2025, the country was already experiencing an epidemic. The peak then was higher than current levels, with 118 GP visits per 100,000 people recorded in early February. The outbreak had subsided by the end of March.

When assessing an epidemic, researchers consider not just GP visits but also how frequently the influenza virus appears in tested samples. Flu-like symptoms can be caused by other germs, too. The lab results show that the presence of the influenza virus is rising.

While the majority of people with influenza do not see a GP, a smaller group, mostly those who are more vulnerable, do. This makes the data a reliable indicator of how flu viruses are spreading.

The flu is caused by the influenza virus. Infected individuals may develop symptoms such as cough, fever, tiredness, headache, sore throat, and muscle aches. While most recover without medical intervention, certain groups are at higher risk, including those over 60, people with lung conditions, and individuals with diabetes. The RIVM reports that influenza contributes to approximately 4,700 deaths annually.