Seasonal flu cases are rising rapidly across Europe, with Albania reporting early signs of increasing infections. European health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as this year’s flu season began approximately four weeks earlier than in previous years. This early onset has been linked to the prevalence of the K sub-type of the influenza A(H3N2) virus.
“This strain appears to spread faster and is contributing to a growing number of cases, which is particularly concerning. Although there is currently no evidence that this new sub-type causes more severe illness in the general population, its rapid spread significantly increases the burden on healthcare systems,” said Theodora Psaltopoulou, Professor of Epidemiology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this virus strain has become dominant in Europe, accounting for up to 90% of confirmed cases. Transmission is especially high among children aged 5-14, while some countries are seeing increased hospitalizations, primarily among people aged 65 and older, intensifying concerns among health authorities. Healthcare systems in several countries are already under pressure. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) is particularly strained due to the rapid rise in flu cases.
Official figures indicate that thousands of patients are admitted to hospitals daily, with bed occupancy increasing mainly among the elderly and those with chronic conditions. British authorities describe the situation as one of the worst winter flu waves in recent years, as the outbreak coincides with the circulation of other respiratory viruses, causing delays in emergency rooms and shortages of available beds. This development is serving as a warning for other European countries.
Experts warn of a likely seasonal flu outbreak in the coming weeks, amid increased social contact during the holiday season. Past experience shows that such periods are often associated with a sharp rise in cases, which typically leads to a surge in hospital admissions shortly after the holidays.
The WHO notes that seasonal flu spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks nearby, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Holiday gatherings in enclosed spaces further increase the potential for transmission.
Who is at Risk?
WHO and other international organizations agree that people over 60, individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases, diabetes, or kidney failure, immunocompromised patients, pregnant women, and young children under five are at increased risk of severe complications from the flu. For these groups, infection can lead to pneumonia, worsening of underlying conditions, and hospitalization.
Annual flu vaccination remains the most important preventive measure, according to WHO. Even if administered later in the season, vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and death, particularly in vulnerable groups, as documented by major epidemiological studies.
