There was a small increase compared to the previous week in the positivity for SARS-CoV2 in the community, according to the epidemiological report of the EODY for the period 16-22 September.

In particular, the report states:

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 showed a slight increase compared to the previous week.

509 new imports were recorded, showing a decrease compared to the previous week. The average weekly number of new admissions over the previous four weeks was 669.

The number of new intubations was seven. The average weekly number of new intubations during the previous four weeks was 11. The number of patients with COVID-19 infection hospitalized while intubated is 25.

The number of deaths was 14. The average weekly number of deaths in the previous four weeks was 36.

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 running lower overall than last year’s summer surge. The weekly data showed an increase in the circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in six of the ten areas tested, a stabilization in three and a decrease 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.

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.

Respiratory syncytial virus – RSV

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