On 1 April 2023, the last coronavirus measures were lifted in Luxembourg. Life in the Grand Duchy is now almost exactly as it was before the pandemic. However, this does not mean that the virus has disappeared. On the contrary, seeing as Luxembourg currently finds itself in the midst of an epidemic.
The authorities are aware of the high number of infections since laboratories are still obligated to forward their figures to the National Health Directorate. In addition, the state continues to conduct analyses of the country’s wastewater, with record levels being registered just last week. At the same time, however, hospitalisations due to Covid-19 remain comparatively low, attributed to the evolving nature of the virus and increased immunity in the population.
Epidemiologist Joël Mossong, affiliated with the National Health Directorate, explains that the less severe nature of current infections can be attributed to widespread vaccination and prior exposure to the virus. Mossong notes, “Most people have received at least three or four doses of the vaccine or have encountered the virus multiple times. This cumulative experience has contributed to a notable level of immunity, commonly referred to as herd immunity.”
The surge in infections can also be attributed to a new variant, BA2.86, which has been circulating since August. This variant poses a challenge to the immune system, since it has only been around for the past few months. While the disease’s severity has diminished, health officials maintain their recommendation for vaccination, particularly for individuals over 65, those with vulnerabilities, and pregnant women. Regular adjustments to vaccines are made to address emerging variants.
In addition to Covid-19, other respiratory viruses are currently on the rise. Bronchiolitis, caused by the RS virus, predominantly affects infants. However, Mossong highlights that a new immunisation campaign initiated in October has proven effective, offering better protection against severe cases in babies, as observed in paediatrics at the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL).
The number of flu cases is also on the rise. In this context, the National Health Directorate emphasises that it is not too late to get vaccinated. As the festive season approaches, health officials also recommend rapid testing before family gatherings to mitigate the risk of virus transmission.
