The increased activity of SARS-CoV2 that was observed in the summer is gradually receding, according to the epidemiological report of the EODY for the period 9-15 September.

The total positivity of tested samples remained at the same levels compared to the previous week, as were admissions, intubations and deaths from covid-19.

Influenza-like illness – ILI (regardless of pathogen)

The number of influenza cases per 1,000 visits remains low.

Severe Acute Respiratory Infection – SARI (regardless of pathogen)

The number of SARI cases per 1,000 visits remains low.

SARS-CoV2 virus – COVID-19 infection

The increased activity of the virus observed during the summer period seems to be starting to subside gradually.

The positivity in all tested samples remained at the same levels compared to the previous week.

595 new imports were recorded, remaining at the same levels as compared to the previous week. The average weekly number of new admissions over the previous four weeks was 713.

The number of new intubations was eight. The average weekly number of new intubations during the previous four weeks was 12. The number of patients with COVID-19 infection hospitalized while intubated is 25.

The number of deaths was 23. The average weekly number of deaths in the previous four weeks was 38.

Since late spring, the BA.2.86 strain carrying at least one of the F456L and R346T mutations has dominated detections. It is noted that this category of mutant strains has not been associated with an increased risk of severe disease.

Viral load surveillance in municipal wastewater suggests an earlier start to the summer upward trend, with levels thus far overall lower than last summer’s surge. Weekly data showed a decline in SA ARS-CoV-2 circulation in nine of the ten areas tested and a stabilization in one.

Vulnerable population groups (elderly and people with underlying diseases) are advised to scrupulously follow preventive measures against respiratory infections and to seek medical advice in time for symptoms, in order to provide timely treatment. At the same time, it is recommended to the general population, in the presence of respiratory infection symptoms, to limit contacts with people belonging to vulnerable groups.

Influenza virus

Influenza positivity as assessed by surveillance networks in the community (PHC Sentinel surveillance network) and in the hospital setting (SARI surveillance network) remains very low, with only sporadic positive samples being detected.

No new serious case with ICU hospitalization was recorded, nor was there a new death from laboratory-confirmed influenza.

Respiratory syncytial virus – RSV

No positive samples were found in both the community (PHC Sentinel surveillance network) and hospitals (SARI surveillance network)