Romanian health authorities have issued an epidemiological alert after a sharp rise in flu cases over the past three weeks. The surge in respiratory infections has placed increased strain on hospitals, particularly in Bucharest, Cluj, and Brasov. While the situation is concerning, officials have ruled out imposing lockdowns or strict restrictions, instead focusing on preventative measures to limit the spread.
Flu Cases and Fatalities Continue to Climb
Between January 20 and 26, the National Institute for Public Health (INSP) reported 133,600 respiratory infections, marking a 6% increase from the previous week. Confirmed flu cases rose sharply to 10,950, compared to 6,994 the week before. So far, 22 people have died, including a three-year-old child. Health Minister Alexandru Rafila confirmed that none of the victims had been vaccinated against the flu.
Despite the growing health risk, Romania’s flu vaccination rate remains low, with just 1.13 million people have taken vaccines out of a population of over 19 million. Rafila acknowledged that the rise in cases is unprecedented, but reassured the public that quarantine measures are not necessary. Instead, health authorities are focusing on mitigation strategies, ensuring that social and economic activities continue without major disruptions.
Hospitals and Schools Strengthen Preventative Measures
Hospitals nationwide have been ordered to limit visitor numbers to curb the spread of the flu. Cristina Geormaneanu, spokesperson for the Craiova County Emergency Hospital, emphasized that visits should be restricted to essential cases. At the Victor Babes Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases in Craiova, medical facilities are already operating at full capacity, with healthcare staff following strict infection control protocols.
New safety guidelines have also been introduced in schools and kindergartens. Students and teachers showing flu symptoms must self-isolate, and classrooms must be regularly ventilated to reduce virus transmission. The government is expected to release further health recommendations to contain the outbreak.
Flu cases in Romania have fluctuated in recent years, with a significant spike in 2020, when infections peaked at 29,000 during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, health officials also noted a rise in “flu-rona” cases, where individuals tested positive for both influenza and COVID-19 simultaneously.
As the flu season progresses, authorities remain on high alert and continue to monitor the situation closely, urging wider vaccination uptake and adherence to health guidelines.
