Skopje, 5 January 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Health Azir Aliu said Monday that flu season is expected to peak over the next two to three weeks, adding that a surge in the number of flu patients seeking health services is common during this period every year. 

Currently, he noted, the country sees no spike in flu cases that would make the situation alarming compared to previous years. 

"We have not yet reached the peak of flu season to be able to make a proper comparison between this year and the previous year. I am pleased to inform you that this year, for the first time, 77,000 citizens have already been vaccinated against the flu. This is the best approach to create conditions so that the body can be protected against the seasonal influenza," said Aliu. 

He added that there are 3,000 flu vaccine doses still available.

"Citizens don't need a vaccination appointment, but can visit health institutions for a walk-in flu shot. This is the only way we can protect our citizens, especially the population in that cluster of sensitivity - the elderly, pregnant women, health workers," Aliu told reporters after Monday's press conference to raise public awareness of the dangers of using pyrotechnics.

Photo: MIA