In the territory of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to 10,000 new cases of respiratory infections that lead to the emergence of a flu-like illness are registered weekly. That is why the authorities state the importance of preventive measures, and put immunization in the first place.
Influenza is widespread in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a growing trend, and as the head of the Department for Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases at the Federal Institute of Public Health Sanjin Musa said, approximately ten thousand cases of respiratory infections are reported weekly in that entity.
“Since the beginning of the 12th month, we have seen an increase in the number of patients presenting to primary care clinics with symptoms of respiratory diseases. This increase is driven by the circulation of the flu virus. Influenza activity is on the rise three to four weeks earlier than in previous seasons. The circulation of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also slowly increasing from low levels since the end of December,” said Musa.
Influenza A, subtype A(H3N2) is dominant this season, and the phylogenetic analysis of A(H3N2) strains indicates genetic changes, which may affect the characteristics of the virus.
“With the 52nd week of 2025, an increase in the number of people hospitalized due to severe acute respiratory infections is also noted. Among hospitalized patients in the sentinel flu surveillance unit at KCUS, almost 25 percent of patients are positive for flu. The current season will probably be marked by a significant impact of flu on illness, due to slightly changed characteristics of the virus,” adds Musa.
The protection provided by the flu vaccine is still significant, especially for risk groups, that is, people over 65 years of age with chronic diseases. Musa emphasizes that it is still not too late to get vaccinated.
“Other preventive measures include respiratory hygiene and hand hygiene, as well as taking precautionary measures when symptoms appear in order to prevent the spread, especially if there are people in the environment who belong to risk groups,” said Musa.
Influenza is an infectious disease caused by the influenza virus (types A and B cause seasonal flu), and it differs from other respiratory diseases, e.g. colds, after the sudden onset and development of symptoms of the disease.
It is characterized by high body temperature (38 degrees and above), headache, general malaise, runny nose, sore throat and cough. Influenza is spread by droplets, through coughing, sneezing and talking.
Closed spaces are particularly suitable for the spread of influenza, which can be transmitted by contact with unclean hands and objects. During the flu season, more personal, especially respiratory, hygiene and hygiene of the area where one stays is recommended.
All age groups can be affected, but serious illnesses, complications and deaths from the flu are more common among people over 65 and chronically ill, regardless of age, it says. Klix.
