According to the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory, the percentage of influenza cases in Latvia decreased to 12.4% of tested samples in the previous week from 15.2% the week before. All confirmed cases were of the A type influenza virus, with the A/H3 strain remaining dominant since the start of the season. However, there has been an increase in reported cases of the A/H1pdm strain in the last few weeks, indicating a shift in the viral landscape that health authorities are monitoring closely.

The State Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) has urged residents to continue practicing preventive measures due to the concurrent circulation of influenza, Covid-19, and other respiratory infections. Recommendations include regular handwashing, ensuring proper ventilation in homes, avoiding crowded places, and wearing medical face masks or respirators when necessary. In case of illness, individuals are advised to stay home, contact their family doctor, and follow medical guidance to minimize the spread of infections.

Additionally, data from primary care institutions reflect a 24% reduction in influenza cases, with a reported rate of 190.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants last week, down from 250.6 cases per 100,000 the previous week. This reduction may signal a temporary improvement in the situation, but health officials are emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance as respiratory viruses can circulate and impact public health significantly, especially as the winter season progresses.