## Flu Season Update: Mantua Sees Increased Vaccination, Flu Cases Remain Steady
Approximately 4,000 residents of Mantua are currently experiencing seasonal flu, mirroring the incidence rate from last autumn which was around 9.5 cases per 1,000 people. While this number is significant, it remains well below the peak experienced last year, when around 7,000 Mantua residents were ill with the flu at the end of January.
Flu Trends & Peak Prediction
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This year’s flu season, caused by the Australian strain, has followed a slower progression compared to previous years. The current curve is similar to that of last year, contrasting sharply with the rapid increases observed in 2023 and 2022. Three years ago,the peak was reached around this time,while two years ago the maximum spread occurred just before Christmas.Last year’s peak arrived in the fourth week of january.Due to this fluctuating pattern, predicting the exact timing of the peak this year remains challenging, though January is still anticipated to be the height of the season.
Vaccination efforts & COVID-19 Uptake
mantua is seeing a positive trend in flu vaccination rates. As of the end of November, 65,000 residents have received the flu vaccine – 5,000 more than at the same point last year.While the final vaccination numbers last year reached over 74,000, this year’s increased early uptake is encouraging.
However, vaccination rates for COVID-19 have decreased. On November 25th, 6,717 COVID-19 vaccines were administered, compared to 7,158 on November 26th, 2024.
The flu vaccination campaign began on October 1st, initially focusing on recommended categories.Since October 13th,the vaccine has been freely available to all residents who book an appointment.Worldwide, free management was expanded to all Asst vaccination centers (Asola, Suzzara, Viadana, Borgo mantovano, Mantua and Castiglione delle Stiviere) on October 20th, and is also available through general practitioners and pharmacies.
Booking Your Vaccine
Residents can book their flu vaccine through the regional portal HealthBook, accessible via the Lombardy Region website (look for the 2025-2026 flu campaign link). Appointments can also be made directly with pharmacies and family doctors.
