The flu epidemic in the Netherlands will soon be over (finally). Yes, fortunately going into the ninth week of this long flu season shows signs for hope.
(Also, we would like to share a moment and think of DutchReview’s Abuzer who is down with the manflu.)
Last week ten fewer people checked in to their GP with flu symptoms, 54 in every 100,000 people sought medical advice. Now there is a flu epidemic for the eighth consecutive week. On average, such an epidemic lasts about nine weeks in the Netherlands. Last year, the flu-wave lasted twice as long as normal.
When is flu season considered an epidemic?
If two weeks in a row more than 51 out of 100,000 people have flu, there is an official epidemic. A lot of babies and toddlers fell ill during these past few weeks. This has been the case for a while now as children going to school sick can make teachers sick, leaving schools understaffed. The same effect is had on the small business economy when their customers are struck by the flu they are less likely to go out and spend.
Young children affected.
At its worst, the epidemic had 74 in every 100,000 reporting flu symptoms, the week after 68. Hopefully, it stays away! The cold doesn’t seem to be going anywhere so rug up, eat your vegetables (kids!) and stay healthy so the flu season can leave.
DutchReview’s own captain, Abuzer Van Leeuwen is currently home sick in the icy grips of the flu (kick its ass Abuzer!). We’re all hoping for a speedy recovery and better health through the winter. (Edit Abuzer: I’M DYING AND THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOTHING)
The Netherlands Institute for Healthcare Research is based on figures from forty GP practices spread across the country.
A great way to kill time when you’re sick with the flu is cycling through Dutch Review’s articles and videos 😉 Leave a comment and get well soon!