Catalonia is once again at the crossroads of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a notable increase in the number of cases and hospitalizations. Despite advances in population immunization, SARS-CoV-2 remains an ongoing concern.
Recent reports indicate that older people admitted for COVID-19 are on the rise, which has led to a deeper evaluation of the situation and its possible causes.
In recent days, Catalan hospitals have experienced an increase in the number of people admitted due to COVID-19.
The most recent data show that a total of 453 people are being treated for this disease in different health centers in the region.
Despite the population immunity provided by vaccines, this increase in admissions is a reminder that the fight against the virus is not completely over.
It is important to note that 81% of those admitted were over 60 years of age, which underscores the vulnerability of this population group to the disease.
While intensive care unit (ICU) admissions remain stable for the time being, with 13 patients across the territory, concern about the continued spread of the virus is evident.
Number of Covid-19 cases in Catalonia rises
The increase in hospital admissions is only part of the picture. Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) have also experienced an increase in incidence.
With a rate of 315 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, ARIs are affecting a significant number of people in Catalonia. In the last week, 24,733 cases of ARIs have been reported in the region.
The SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to be the leading cause of infections, accounting for 35.2% of infections. It is followed by rhinovirus (14.1%) and parainfluenza (9.4%).
At this time, coronavirus is on the rise with a rate of 111 cases per 100,000 population, indicating an increase in transmission compared to the previous week.
The Eris variant and its impact
One of the current concerns is the emergence of the new variant of the virus, Eris. Although considered of “concern” but “low risk” by the World Health Organization (WHO), Eris is known to be more contagious than previous variants.
The Eris variant has been circulating in Catalonia since June 8 and has been detected in 39 positive samples to date.
Although some epidemiologists suggest that the Eris variant could be behind the increase in cases and hospital admissions, official data do not yet fully reflect its preponderance.
The current situation in Catalonia highlights the continued importance of maintaining precautions and safety measures, especially for the elderly and those with chronic pathologies.
