Today’s news / COVID-19 still more serious than flu
During September, everyone who has turned 65 has received an invitation for a free vaccination against influenza and covid-19. The vaccination period lasts from October 1 to December 20. (Archive photo). Photo: Christophe Gateau/Ritzau Scanpix

COVID-19 still more serious than flu

The State Serum Institute (SSI) in Denmark reports that COVID-19 led to more than double the hospitalizations and deaths compared to influenza in the first two years after the pandemic. The study highlighted COVID-19’s severe impact, including summer hospitalizations, which are uncommon for flu. It covered data from May 2022 to June 2024, including 24,687 COVID-19 and 8,682 flu hospitalizations, and considered factors like age, vaccination, and underlying health conditions. Though COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are declining, SSI still regards it as more severe than flu. The study reinforces the effectiveness of annual vaccinations, especially for high-risk individuals during colder months. People over 65 and those under 65 with chronic conditions have been offered free vaccinations against both diseases.