Surge in Flu Cases Strains Lisbon Hospitals: What You Need to Know

Flu cases in Portugal have surged to 386 between December 9 and 15, marking a significant increase from the previous week. According to the latest data from the National Health Institute, there is a growing trend of respiratory infections, particularly impacting emergency services in the Lisbon region.

The epidemiological surveillance report indicates that out of the 386 flu cases, 353 are from group B and 33 from group A, reflecting a 32% increase compared to the previous report covering December 2 to 8. Cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections remain minimal.

Additionally, the Portuguese Laboratory Network has detected other respiratory agents in 162 cases, with rhinovirus being the most prevalent. During the same week, 61 cases of severe acute respiratory infection were admitted to hospitals, coinciding with a significant drop in temperatures across the country, prompting warnings to the public about the cold weather.

Increased Pressure on Lisbon Hospitals

Some hospitals are experiencing a rise in emergency room visits, especially in pediatric departments, due to the increased number of respiratory infections. The Fernando Fonseca Hospital (Amadora-Sintra) reports a notable increase in general emergency services, attributed not only to respiratory infections but also to exacerbations of chronic diseases. According to Catarina Pereira, a representative from the hospital, many patients are arriving in more critical condition, often requiring intensive care, leading to over 48 hours wait times in the emergency room for inpatient beds.

Despite the increased patient load, Hospital Santa Maria mentions that the rise in emergency visits is not as significant as anticipated but acknowledges a marked increase in pediatric cases since early December.

Northern and Central Regions Facing Similar Trends

In the north, Hospital de São João has noted increased pressure on its pediatric emergency services due to the circulation of the respiratory syncytial virus. Cristina Marujo, the emergency director, notes a slight uptick in general emergency visits but without major complications. The Coimbra region is also witnessing a gradual rise in pediatric respiratory infections, particularly due to influenza type B and respiratory syncytial virus, which predominantly affect children and the elderly, though these viruses are not yet widely spreading in the community.

As hospitals brace for potential challenges ahead, the focus remains on managing the increasing influx of patients while ensuring adequate care for those most in need.