Norway is experiencing an unusual early flu season with cases rising several weeks earlier than normal. Health officials report a clear increase in influenza activity, particularly in Oslo and Central Norway regions.
The Norwegian Institute of Public Health confirmed the early surge in a recent statement. They noted influenza levels are higher than typical for this time of year.
Senior adviser Kjersti Rydland from the institute explained the situation. "We see a clear increase in influenza during the past week," she said. "This is several weeks earlier than normal. This year's flu outbreak may start earlier than usual."
Health authorities urge older adults and at-risk groups to protect themselves immediately. They recommend getting flu vaccines as soon as possible.
The flu vaccine provides the best protection after 10-14 days. This creates urgency for vulnerable populations to vaccinate before the outbreak intensifies.
All residents aged 65 and older qualify for both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. Children and adults in risk groups also receive vaccine offers.
People aged 65 also get offers for pneumococcal disease vaccines. This bacterial infection can cause anything from sinus and ear infections to serious pneumonia, blood poisoning, or meningitis.
The early flu surge suggests this winter season could be more challenging than recent years. Health services may face additional pressure if both flu and COVID-19 circulate simultaneously.
International readers should note that Norway's healthcare system provides free vaccines to vulnerable groups. This differs from many countries where patients must pay for flu shots.