Flu Epidemic Strains Groningen Hospitals and GP Practices
Local healthcare facilities and GP practices overwhelmed amid sharp increase in flu infections. Unless symptoms are severe, doctors advise to stay home.
The annual flu epidemic in the Netherlands has officially begun, with cases rising sharply and hospitals in Groningen adjusting operations to handle the influx of patients. The RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) has confirmed a significant increase in flu cases across the country, and Groningen’s UMCG and Martini Hospital are now rearranging beds to accommodate the growing number of flu patients.
Sharp Increase in Flu Cases
According to RIVM, Nivel, and Erasmus MC, flu infections have surged in recent weeks:
68% of throat and nose samples from patients with flu-like symptoms tested positive for the flu virus, up from 58% the previous week.
76 per 100,000 residents visited their GP with flu symptoms last week, surpassing the epidemic threshold of 53 per 100,000.
Multiple flu strains are circulating, including influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and influenza B, all of which are covered by the annual flu vaccine.
Hospitals Facing Challenges
The UMCG and Martini Hospital are experiencing high admissions due to flu patients, many of whom have underlying conditions such as heart or lung disease. The hospitals are implementing logistical measures to manage the crisis:
Flu patients are grouped together in shared rooms to free up single-bed rooms for non-flu patients.
Patients with different flu strains (influenza A and B) are being separated to prevent further spread.
Last week, hospitals in Hoogeveen, Emmen, and Stadskanaal were already dealing with increased flu-related admissions. Now, Groningen’s largest hospitals are also feeling the pressure.
GP Practices Overwhelmed
GP practices across Groningen are also reporting a surge in patient visits. Tjitte Verbeek van Buuren of GP practice Radesingel confirms:
"There is now a huge influx of patients calling, emailing, or visiting the practice. Many people are sick at the moment."
While most flu cases resolve on their own, GPs advise seeking medical help if symptoms worsen, such as:
Severe shortness of breath
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Extreme drowsiness or confusion
What to Do if You Have the Flu?
For those experiencing flu symptoms, rest and hydration are key:
Drink 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily to stay hydrated.
Get plenty of rest—most cases resolve within a few days.
Avoid unnecessary GP visits unless symptoms are severe.
While RSV and COVID-19 are also circulating, doctors emphasize that basic precautions remain the same:
Wash your hands frequently
Sneeze into your elbow
Avoid contact with vulnerable individuals
If unsure about symptoms, residents are encouraged to visit thuisarts.nl, a reliable medical information source.
Flu Epidemic Expected to Continue
With flu cases rising rapidly and hospitals adjusting their capacity, Groningen residents should prepare for several more weeks of flu-related disruptions. While most cases are mild, health authorities urge caution to prevent further strain on medical services.