After several weeks of a creeping increase in numbers, the flu has already exceeded what is known as the epidemic threshold in Spain. And the worst is yet to come.
Epidemiologists predict that with the return to school and work after the Christmas holidays, when the entire population is back to their normal routines and interactions, this respiratory disease will reach its peak.
It is not unusual at the moment to be surrounded by those showing symptoms, in family, in social situations, or even at the local supermarket. The sounds of croaky voices, coughs and blocked nasal passages seem to be ringing out everywhere.
Most Read on Euro Weekly News
Flu epidemic expected to reach peak in two to three weeks
The flu epidemic is currently having a particularly strong impact in Catalonia. There, the emergency room of the Clinical Hospital Barcelona has patients waiting up to 10 hours. Officials in other health centres such as San Paul, also warn that the worst will be in about two or three weeks when the infections from the Christmas celebrations become feverish.
Given the worrying increase in cases, the Ministry of Health is advising vaccination against this flu virus, as many are still in time and because this year’s strain, Ay B, responds very well to the vaccines that are being administered.
While waiting for the arrival of the peak of infections, outpatient clinics and emergency services are preparing for the possible avalanche of patients with flu symptoms. Health workers recommend treating symptoms with anti-flu medicine, such as paracetamol, and to rest and stay well hydrated whenever possible.