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Flu Virus surges Again: Hospitals and Schools Feel the Strain
Table of Contents
The flu virus is making a strong comeback this season, with symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue affecting countless individuals. Hospitals are seeing a meaningful influx of patients, while schools are struggling to maintain schedules. Experts are calling for increased public awareness to combat the growing crisis.
Hospitals Overwhelmed as Flu Cases Rise
According to the Dutch Emergency Association,hospitals are scaling back planned care to manage the surge in flu-related cases. “We notice that it is indeed busy,” says Yara Basta, the association’s chairman. “Different types of treatments are being postponed.”
The delays primarily affect non-life-threatening procedures,such as knee replacements,as well as surgeries requiring post-operative intensive care. “It is indeed about people who receive non-lifesaving interventions, think of a new knee. But also think of interventions where a stay in the IC is needed afterwards,” Basta explains. The exact number of affected patients remains unclear, but the strain on healthcare systems is undeniable.
Schools Struggle to Keep Up
The flu’s impact isn’t limited to hospitals. Schools are also feeling the pressure as absenteeism among students and staff disrupts schedules. Teachers and administrators are working tirelessly to adjust lesson plans and maintain educational continuity.
A Call for Public Awareness
Experts emphasize the need for better public information campaigns to help curb the spread of the virus. Increased awareness about preventive measures, such as vaccination and hygiene practices, could alleviate some of the strain on healthcare and educational systems.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Affected Sectors | Hospitals, schools |
| Hospital Impact | Postponement of non-lifesaving treatments and surgeries requiring ICU care |
| School Impact | Disrupted schedules due to high absenteeism |
| expert Recommendations| Increased public awareness and preventive measures |
A ‘Dormant Crisis’ Unfolding
The current situation has been described as a “dormant crisis,” highlighting the need for proactive measures to prevent further escalation. As flu cases continue to rise, the importance of vaccination and public health initiatives cannot be overstated.
For more information on flu prevention and treatment, visit the World health Organization’s flu guidelines.
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Stay informed and take preventive steps to protect yourself and your community during this flu season.
Flu and RS Virus Surge Strains Dutch Healthcare System
The Netherlands is grappling with a dual surge of the flu virus and the RS virus, putting significant pressure on healthcare facilities and schools. Hospitals are reporting higher patient volumes compared to last year, with elderly individuals and babies being particularly vulnerable.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Flu and RS Virus Cases
Esther Cornegé-Blokland, chairman of the Dutch Association for Clinical Geriatrics (NVKG), describes the situation as a “dormant crisis.” She explains, “We have scarcity anyway—too few staff, too much demand—and with such a peak like this, the bucket in elderly care quickly passes over. Patients can still be helped now, but it is under pressure.”
The RS virus, which is especially dangerous for babies, is also affecting the elderly, leading to increased hospitalizations. “Because of that combination, it is now busier than last year,” says Cornegé-Blokland.
Hospitals are taking measures to manage the influx. Haaglanden MC in The Hague has opened a special department with room for 24 flu patients, while Haga Hospital in the same city has prepared four extra beds. Similarly, Isala Hospitals in Zwolle and Meppel have added four additional beds for flu patients.
Elderly and Young Adults Affected
The flu epidemic seems to have started, according to recent findings by RIVM and Nivel. The number of people visiting doctors with flu-like complaints has risen sharply, and the flu virus has been detected in more throat and nose samples.
While the elderly are particularly vulnerable, younger adults are also being affected. “Of course, the elderly are generally extra vulnerable, but a man of 30 with serious flu complaints came in recently, for example,” says a spokesperson from the Emergency Department.
Schools Hit Hard by Flu Outbreak
The flu outbreak is not limited to healthcare facilities. de Sterrenschool primary school in Hilversum is experiencing a significant number of absences among both staff and students.
“four of the twelve teachers are sick, so I have to rely as a teacher for groups 5 and 6,” says director Ivonne de Bondt. “38 children are sick at the moment. That is much more than normal.”
Key Statistics
| category | Details |
|—————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Hospitals Affected | Haaglanden MC, haga Hospital, Isala Hospitals |
| Extra Beds Added | 24 at Haaglanden MC, 4 at Haga Hospital, 4 at isala Hospitals |
| School Absences | 4 out of 12 teachers, 38 children at De Sterrenschool |
| Vulnerable Groups | Elderly, babies, and young adults |
Call to Action
With the flu and RS virus spreading rapidly, it’s crucial to take preventive measures such as vaccination and practicing good hygiene. If you or a loved one experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Stay informed about the latest updates on the flu epidemic and RS virus to protect yourself and your community.
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This article is based on information from the original source. For more details, visit the RIVM report.
How to Reduce the Spread of Airway Infections: Expert Advice from RIVM
As the colder months approach, the risk of airway infections, including the flu and other respiratory viruses, increases. While it’s unfeasible to fully prevent these infections, the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has shared practical advice to help reduce the spread of viruses and protect vulnerable individuals.
Key Measures to Limit the Spread of Airway infections
The RIVM emphasizes that simple, everyday actions can make a significant difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay home if you’re sick. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent spreading illness to others.
- Work from home if you have symptoms. Even if you’re not severely ill, working remotely can definitely help protect your colleagues.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow. This reduces the risk of spreading droplets that carry viruses.
- Maintain distance from others. Keeping a safe distance, especially in crowded spaces, can lower transmission rates.
- Avoid contact with vulnerable individuals. People with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.
- Wear a mask when necessary. If you’re providing informal care or visiting someone at risk, wearing a mask can help protect them.
Good hygiene is also crucial. regularly washing your hands with soap and water and ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces can significantly reduce the spread of viruses.
Why These Measures Work
According to the chairman of the Dutch Immunization Foundation, Van Essen, the RIVM’s advice has proven effective in the past. “At Corona, those advice has helped enormously,” he says. “Those advice is now also useful, more attention should be paid to that.”
Van Essen also highlights the importance of public awareness. He calls on the government to increase efforts in disseminating this information, as many people may not be fully aware of the ongoing risks and preventive measures.
Basta, another expert, echoes this sentiment. “I have not seen any public information myself,” he notes. “It is good to emphasize that the basic rules are still basic. Such as, think about doing a mouthstap when you visit your sick grandmother.”
The Role of the Flu Shot
In addition to these measures, Van Essen stresses the importance of getting the flu shot. “There are always people who forget to respond to the call for a flu shot,” he says. “Know that you can still go to your doctor to get the shot. the epidemic is probably not at the top yet, so it can still care a lot like the already invited people still get the shot.”
The flu shot remains a critical tool in preventing severe illness, especially for high-risk groups. Even if you missed the initial invitation, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.
Summary of Key Recommendations
To make it easier to follow, here’s a table summarizing the RIVM’s advice:
| Action | Why It Matters |
|————————————-|———————————————————————————–|
| Stay home if sick | Prevents spreading the virus to others. |
| work from home with symptoms | Protects colleagues and reduces workplace transmission. |
| Cough and sneeze into your elbow | Minimizes the spread of infectious droplets. |
| Maintain distance | reduces the risk of close-contact transmission. |
| Avoid contact with vulnerable people| Protects those at higher risk of severe illness. |
| Wear a mask when necessary | Adds an extra layer of protection in high-risk situations. |
| Wash hands and ventilate spaces | limits the spread of viruses and improves indoor air quality. |
Final Thoughts
While airway infections are a common part of life, following these simple yet effective measures can definitely help protect yourself and others. As Van Essen and Basta emphasize, public awareness and adherence to these guidelines are key to reducing the impact of respiratory viruses.
Don’t forget the flu shot—it’s a small step that can make a big difference. If you haven’t already, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor to get vaccinated.Together, we can limit the spread of illness and keep our communities healthier.
interview wiht Health Experts on Reducing the Spread of Airway Infections
Editor: Thank you both for joining us today. Let’s start with the basics. What are the most effective ways to reduce the spread of airway infections, according to the RIVM?
Van Essen: The RIVM emphasizes simple, everyday actions that can make a significant difference. Staying home when you’re sick is one of the most effective measures. It prevents the virus from spreading to others. Additionally, working from home if you have symptoms, even mild ones, can protect your colleagues.
Basta: I’d add that good hygiene practices, like coughing or sneezing into your elbow and regularly washing your hands with soap and water, are crucial. These actions minimize the spread of infectious droplets and reduce the risk of transmission.
editor: How vital is maintaining distance and avoiding contact with vulnerable individuals?
Van Essen: Extremely critically important.Keeping a safe distance, especially in crowded spaces, lowers the chances of close-contact transmission. Avoiding contact with vulnerable individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions, is equally critical. These groups are at higher risk of severe illness.
Basta: I agree. Wearing a mask when necessary, like when providing informal care or visiting someone at risk, adds an extra layer of protection. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
Editor: The article mentions the importance of ventilation.Can you elaborate on that?
Van Essen: Proper ventilation in indoor spaces is key. It improves air quality and reduces the concentration of airborne viruses. This is especially critically important in settings like offices, schools, and homes where people spend a lot of time together.
Basta: Yes, and it’s something many people overlook. Simple actions like opening windows or using air purifiers can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
Editor: The article also highlights the role of the flu shot. Why is it so important?
Van Essen: The flu shot is a critical tool in preventing severe illness, especially for high-risk groups. Even if you missed the initial invitation, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.The flu epidemic is highly likely not at its peak yet, so getting the shot now can still provide significant protection.
Basta: I’d like to emphasize that public awareness is key. Many people forget or don’t realize the importance of the flu shot. The government should increase efforts to disseminate this data.
Editor: What’s your final message to our readers?
Van Essen: Follow the RIVM’s advice. These simple measures—staying home when sick, maintaining distance, wearing masks when necessary, and getting the flu shot—can make a big difference in protecting yourself and others.
Basta: Public awareness and adherence to these guidelines are crucial. Together, we can limit the spread of illness and keep our communities healthier.
Summary of Key Recommendations
here’s a rapid recap of the RIVM’s advice:
| Action | why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Stay home if sick | Prevents spreading the virus to others. |
| Work from home with symptoms | Protects colleagues and reduces workplace transmission. |
| Cough and sneeze into your elbow | Minimizes the spread of infectious droplets. |
| Maintain distance | Reduces the risk of close-contact transmission. |
| Avoid contact with vulnerable people | Protects those at higher risk of severe illness. |
| Wear a mask when necessary | Adds an extra layer of protection in high-risk situations. |
| Wash hands and ventilate spaces | Limits the spread of viruses and improves indoor air quality. |
Final Thoughts
While airway infections are a common part of life, following these simple yet effective measures can help protect yourself and others.as Van Essen and Basta emphasize, public awareness and adherence to these guidelines are key to reducing the impact of respiratory viruses. Don’t forget the flu shot—it’s a small step that can make a big difference. Together, we can limit the spread of illness and keep our communities healthier.
