In the midst of a surge in influenza cases, Namkoong In, a professor of emergency medicine at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, expressed concerns, stating, “Viruses that had been dormant due to the pandemic are now spreading simultaneously.” He urged, “Vaccination should be done even now.”
On January 7, Professor Namkoong shared a lengthy post on his social media account regarding the rapid increase in flu cases. He mentioned, “It feels like witnessing the last period where nationwide COVID-19 infections were unavoidable.”
He further explained, “Different subtypes of influenza A, such as the one that caused the 2009 swine flu pandemic, along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (HMPV), are being detected equally, and occasionally COVID-19 as well.”
He noted, “About half of the emergency room patients or phone inquiries are related to the flu, with cases like ‘my mother can’t eat,’ ‘my father can’t walk,’ or ‘my friend fainted,’ all being due to flu.” While fewer cases develop into pneumonia or require hospitalization compared to past COVID-19 scenarios, he emphasized that all respiratory viruses have the potential to acutely worsen.
Professor Namkoong finds hope in the fact that this flu is similar to past outbreaks and might subside in a few weeks. He advises not to halt activities due to the flu outbreak but stresses the importance of maintaining good condition, observing hygiene, drinking warm water, getting vaccinated, and seeking medical help for vulnerable people.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, during the week of December 22-28, 2024, the rate of influenza outpatient visits was 73.9 per 1,000 people, a tenfold increase from three weeks prior. This is the highest figure in eight years since 2016.
They further explained that influenza cases are rising across all age groups, with the highest incidence among students aged 13-18. The ongoing flu season is expected to last through spring, and children, pregnant women, and seniors over 65 years of age are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated.