Finland has been in the grip of an extensive influenza epidemic, according to figures from public health authority THL.
A total of 2,296 flu patients reported to health centres around the country in the last week of February, based on THL data, an exceptionally high figure.
An epidemic is classified as being 'strong' when there are about 700 cases in a week reported to health services.
The number of infections dropped last week, to about 1,868, which led THL to conclude that the peak of the epidemic may have passed.
However, the authority noted that its figures are based on appointments made at public health centres and does not include, for example, patients visiting occupational health care services.
The true number of cases is therefore likely to be much larger, THL said, adding that the most common cases are influenza A — which is a particularly virulent strain this year.
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