The Head of the National Emergency, Skënder Brataj, spoke at News24 regarding the recent viruses that have affected the country, explaining that it is mainly seasonal flu and its subvariants, favored by the winter season.
According to Brataj, this year, influenza A type is present, including subtypes H1N1 and H1N2, as well as influenza type 2. Alongside them, other respiratory viruses are also circulating, such as RSV and Covid-19, which find suitable conditions for spread during the cold months.
"The flu is a virus itself with its subvariants. This year we have type A, H1N1, H1N2, type 2, but also RSV and Covid. This year the flu even had a new subtype, type K, against which we are not fully protected," said Brataj.
He emphasized that the long epidemiological period of recent years, dominated by Covid-19, has reduced the population's immunity to seasonal flu, making the body more susceptible to these viruses.
Regarding the duration of the disease, Brataj explained that on average, the flu lasts 7–8 days, but in some cases it can last even longer. The first few days are characterized by high fever and severe symptoms, while later the patient feels improvement, although the virus may still be active in the body.
"People often go out thinking they've recovered, but the virus continues to act. Cold is an enemy to tissues weakened by infection and this worsens the disease," Brataj warned.
He advised that patients should take care even after symptoms improve, combining rest, proper treatment, and avoiding exposure to cold, as it is a flu-like illness that requires time for full recovery.
