Brit tourists have been issued with a warning as the Canary Islands are currently facing a significant increase in flu and Covid cases.
The start of the school year has seemingly contributed to the uptick 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) from October 14 to 20 – a number that has doubled since mid-August.
“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), confirmed, while reassuring that the health system is managing well.
“This trend is expected, and we anticipate a further increase in the coming days and weeks,” she added, highlighting the usual seasonal rise in such infections, although Covid continues to be somewhat unpredictable.
(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
The previous season’s peak in the Canary Islands occurred in the week of December 18, with 1,296 cases per 100,000 residents. With this in mind, healthcare professionals are advising those at risk to get vaccinated against both flu and Covid to prevent severe illness and reduce strain on emergency services.
“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 has acknowledged the challenge in convincing people to get vaccinated against Covid, emphasising the dangers by stating: “Both flu and Covid can be deadly. If we are protected, we will fare better against the viruses,” reports the Express.
In November, the Ministry of Health will meet with regional heads to discuss potential mask mandates across four risk levels, which could see face coverings switch from a suggestion to a must-have in waiting areas and A&E departments. Until that happens, Joyanes is pushing for the public to use masks considerately, especially if they’re coughing or sneezing, saying: “Anyone with respiratory symptoms should wear a mask to prevent transmission,” and pointing out that this simple act could be a game-changer in keeping the bug at bay and safeguarding those at high risk.