Portugal Faces Double Trouble: Flu Epidemic and Extreme Cold Linked to 11.8% Spike in Mortality

Flu Epidemic and Cold Snap Impacting Public Health

The Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS) reported a concerning 11.8% increase in mortality in January, coinciding with a flu epidemic and periods of extreme cold. These harsh weather conditions are believed to exacerbate chronic illnesses, leading to increased fatalities.

In the first week of January, there were 319 excess deaths, followed by 428 in the second week, 137 in the third week, and 307 in the last week.

This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for public health measures to protect vulnerable populations during such critical periods.