With autumn setting in, colds, flu, and even Covid are once again circulating in Luxembourg, as the country's Director of Health confirmed that a minor Covid wave is underway, but stressed there is no cause for concern.

Dr Jean-Claude Schmit, Chief Medical Officer at the Health Directorate of the Ministry of Health, explained in an interview with RTL that an increase in infections was expected at this time of year: when schools reopen, viruses begin to spread. He said that around 300 new Covid cases were being confirmed weekly, describing it as a small wave similar to last year's, and emphasised that the situation was nothing out of the ordinary.

As for seasonal flu, the number of confirmed cases remains low for now, just 20 last week, with the annual peak usually arriving in winter. Dr Schmit noted that the flu season typically reaches its height at the end of December, with up to 3,000 cases per week before tapering off towards March. Hospitals and medical practices are therefore not yet under significant strain, though pressure is expected to rise in the coming months, he said.

Schmit does not foresee any major medicine shortages this winter, but reminded residents to protect themselves and stay up to date with vaccinations. Many people, he remarked, have relaxed their habits since the pandemic, forgetting basic preventive measures.

In pharmacies, however, the change of season is already noticeable. Kirchberg pharmacist Thierry Schmit said business had clearly picked up over the past two to three weeks, with more people coming in for flu vaccines, Covid tests, and remedies for colds. He observed that about half of customers self-medicate, while the other half, especially families with children and older adults, are more likely to seek medical advice.

Pharmacies, he added, are ready for what lies ahead, stating that most pharmacies stocked up well before summer, with fever reducers, cough and cold medicine, throat remedies, and everything necessary being available.

A final reminder from health officials: with a little caution, warm clothing, and regular hand-washing, you should once again be able to get through the winter in good health.