🏥 Syrian Ministry of Health reports rise in seasonal influenza cases

damascus/" class="auto-internal-link">damascus, syria (North Press) – The Ministry of Health of the syrian/" class="auto-internal-link">syrian transitional administration declared on Wednesday that data from its national influenza surveillance system shows a persisted rise in acute respiratory illness cases across the country in latest weeks. Additionally, as per a statement published on the ministry’s Facebook page, epidemiological and laboratory data collected from hospitals, health centers, and accredited laboratories up to epidemiological week 48 of 2025 indicate a marked increase in seasonal influenza activity.   The laboratory positivity rate rose to 45. Additionally, 3 percent, compared with 28 percent in the previous update.

The ministry explained that laboratory analyses confirm the near-total dominance of the influenza A virus, predominantly the H3N2 subtype, which is currently the prevailing strain both regionally and globally. In contrast, the role of the COVID-19 virus remains limited. It noted that during epidemiological weeks 47 and 48, influenza A accounted for 93 percent of positive cases, while SARS-CoV-2 represented only 7 percent, confirming that the current surge is primarily driven by seasonal influenza.

It also verified that it is monitoring reports circulating about infections and deaths and is verifying their accuracy through official channels and accredited medical sources. The ministry urged citizens to adhere to general preventive measures and to seek medical care promptly when respiratory symptoms appear, particularly for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses. By Malin Mohammed