The Canary Islands are currently experiencing a significant increase in flu and Covid cases, coinciding with the start of the academic year and contributing to a rise in respiratory infections.
According to the latest data from the Carlos III Health Institute, there's been an incidence rate of 794 cases per 100,000 residents for Covid, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) between October 14 and 20 – a figure that has doubled since mid-August but is not yet at crisis levels. "Every day, we're seeing cases of Covid and other respiratory illnesses," Ana Joyanes, president of the Canary Islands Association of Primary Care Physicians (AMAPCAN), stated, adding that the health system is managing well. "This trend is expected, and we anticipate a further increase in the coming days and weeks," she continued, highlighting the usual seasonal surge in such infections, while noting the unpredictable nature of Covid.
The previous season's peak occurred during the week of December 18, with 1,296 cases per 100,000 residents. Medical experts are advising those who are at risk to get vaccinated against both flu and Covid to prevent severe illness and reduce strain on emergency services. READ MORE: UK tourists in Spain warned that expats and pensioners will be 'forced to leave' "Vaccination is essential to make the impact of these infections milder or avoid them altogether, especially if you are over 60 years of age or classed as vulnerable," Joyanes emphasised, as reported by Canarian Weekly.
Joyanes acknowledges the challenge in convincing individuals to get vaccinated against Covid, stressing the dangers by stating: "Both flu and Covid can be deadly.