Influenza in Ireland Week 20

Update by EHA (Dr john Gallagher):
Overall, influenza activity in Ireland remained at low levels during week 20 2012. The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was low and stable compared to the rate of week 19 2012. ILI rates are below the Irish baseline threshold. Age specific ILI rates remained low in all age groups. No influenza positive specimens were detected by the NVRL during week 20 2012. Influenza A (H3) was the predominant influenza virus circulating this season. To date this season, 11 influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC. No influenza/ILI outbreaks were reported to HPSC during week 20 2012. The 2011/2012 influenza season is drawing to a close in Europe. This season has been unusual in Europe, starting late and with no geographical progression. The season varied considerably in its impact from country to country.

Influenza in Ireland week 16 2012

Update by Dr J Gallagher:
Overall, influenza activity in Ireland remained at low levels and decreased during week 16 2012. The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was slight decreased compared to the rate of week 15 2011. ILI rates are below the Irish baseline threshold (25.9 per 100,000 population). Age specific ILI rates remained low in all age groups during week 16 2012. Influenza A (H3) has been the dominant influenza virus detected this season. One influenza A (H3) outbreak in a residential unit was reported to HPSC during week 16 2012. To date this season, 12 influenza and two RSV outbreaks have been reported to HPSC. In Europe, nearly all countries have now passed their peak of influenza transmission for the 2011/2012 season and are reporting declining activity. However, the proportion of influenza positive specimens indicates that influenza is still circulating in Europe and that influenza B viruses are making an increasingly important contribution.