Increase in Covid-19 cases in FBiH since the beginning of September

(Patria) - A new 2025/2026 season of surveillance for respiratory viruses (influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV) has begun in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in which, as every year from week 40 of the current year to week 20 of the following year, enhanced surveillance and testing for respiratory viruses is conducted.

A comprehensive influenza surveillance system is implemented in the Federation of BiH, which includes monitoring of acute respiratory infections (ARI), influenza-like illness (ILI), as well as severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), with the aim of early detection of virus circulation and monitoring the intensity of influenza activity.

"In the previous 2024/2025 influenza season, a total of 27,496 persons with influenza-like symptoms (ILI) were recorded. A total of 1,803 samples were tested for respiratory viruses, with the largest number of samples positive for influenza type A virus (37.7%). In 2024, three deaths were registered, while in the first half of 2025, 13 deaths from influenza were registered," said Dr. Rozalija Nedić, specialist epidemiologist from the Department of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases of the Institute for Public Health of the Federation of BiH.

Since the beginning of September 2025, an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases has been recorded through routine surveillance, which further emphasizes the importance of monitoring respiratory infections.

"Given the expected higher activity of respiratory viruses in the upcoming period, the population is recommended to adhere to general hygiene and epidemiological measures such as regular hand washing, airing out rooms, avoiding large gatherings, and staying at home in case of flu-like symptoms. Also, vaccination against influenza is recommended as it represents the most effective measure of protection against severe forms of the disease and complications," said Dr. Nedić.

The public will be informed in a timely manner about the availability of influenza vaccines procured by the Institute for Public Health of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, primarily for vaccinating healthcare workers.

The Institute for Public Health of the Federation of BiH continues to monitor the epidemiological situation and will regularly inform the public about the movement of influenza and other respiratory infections in the upcoming season.

Information will be available at: https://www.zzjzfbih.ba/tjedni-izvjestaj-arhiva/