Dutch Health Officials Report Diverging Trends: Flu Falls as Chickenpox Rises
Health officials in the Netherlands are reporting a notable split in seasonal illnesses. The number of new influenza cases continues to fall sharply. However, this positive trend is contrasted by a significant and unusual rise in chickenpox infections among children. The latest data presents a clear picture of these diverging public health paths as winter continues.
A Receding Flu Threat and Vaccine Success
Recent data from Dutch general practitioners shows a clear and encouraging decline in flu activity. In the most recent week, only 21 out of every 100,000 residents visited a doctor for flu-like symptoms. This marks a significant drop from 40 per 100,000 the previous week. Consequently, this decline makes a widespread flu epidemic unlikely for the immediate future. An epidemic is officially defined as exceeding 46 visits per 100,000 for two consecutive weeks.
The data reveals other encouraging signs about vaccine effectiveness. The H3N2 flu variant, often called “super flu” for its severity, has been detected. However, Dutch authorities confirm that current vaccines are effective against this circulating strain. In addition, cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are also lower than in previous years. Officials credit the new RSV immunization program for newborns for this hopeful trend, which has helped prevent intensive care units from becoming overwhelmed.
An Unexpected and Rapid Winter Surge in Chickenpox
While respiratory viruses recede, chickenpox is spreading quickly and unexpectedly among children. Diagnoses have more than doubled in just one week. Cases rose from just over 10 per 100,000 children to about 25 per 100,000. This level of infection is typically seen during the summer months, making the current winter surge particularly unusual for health monitors.
The increase is most noticeable in school-aged children between 5 and 14 years old. Health officials from the RIVM have stated there is no corresponding rise in shingles cases among adults, which is caused by the same dormant virus. The specific reason for this off-season spike is not yet known, as researchers were unavailable for comment during the holiday period. This trend will require further investigation in the coming weeks.
