Podgorica, (MINA) – During the first two and a half months of intensive monitoring of acute respiratory infections, 277 cases of seasonal flu were registered in Montenegro, while two individuals died, the Institute for Public Health (IJZ) said.

This institution stated that this year an earlier onset and more intense circulation of the flu were recorded, compared to several previous seasons.

They pointed out that the highest circulation of the virus was recorded among children aged 5 to 14.

“During this period, two influenza-related deaths were reported, both cases involving individuals from high-risk groups, who were not vaccinated against seasonal flu”, said the IJZ.

When asked if the virus is more severe than strains present during the flu season in previous years, they said that, according to the currently available data, no significant change was recorded in the clinical picture of the patients compared to the usual one.

“The observed changes are primarily related to the earlier onset of the season and the more intense spread of the virus. For a more complete assessment, it is necessary to review data for the entire season and, after a detailed analysis and comparison with previous seasons, draw objective conclusions”, stated the IJZ.