One flu death and over 2,000 respiratory infections in a week
A 50-year-old man from the municipality of Chișinău died from flu A(H1N1). According to the National Agency for Public Health (ANSP), he had underlying health conditions and was not vaccinated against seasonal flu. This is the first flu-related death of the 2026–2027 season.
According to the ANSP, it recorded three cases of influenza between October 19 and 25, one of which resulted in death.
During the same period, 2,057 cases of acute upper respiratory tract infections were reported—an increase of 9.6% compared to the previous week.
The majority of those infected are children.
Additionally, four cases of COVID-19 were reported, up three from the previous week.
For the 2026–2027 season, the state procured 240,000 doses of the influenza vaccine, and over 77,000 have already been administered.
Vaccination is particularly recommended for children over six months of age, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, the elderly, and people living in institutional settings.
Experts say post-vaccination protection typically develops within two to three weeks. Experts recommend annual vaccination because influenza virus strains evolve, and the vaccine's composition is periodically updated in line with WHO recommendations.
To prevent illness, the ANSP urges the public to follow hygiene measures—such as regular handwashing and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing—and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
During the 2025–2026 cold season, the Republic of Moldova confirmed 3,524 cases of seasonal influenza and reported no deaths.
