Experts seem to differ as to whether the many cases of flu that are being registered in Copenhagen constitute an epidemic.

Copenhagen University Professor in Viral Illnesses Jens Lundgren tells DR News that doctors at the university have mapped the number of cases and enquiries in the Greater Copenhagen area and have concluded that an epidemic has broken out.

Institute differs
On the other hand the national institute for infectious diseases Statens Seruminstitut (SSI), says the outbreak has not reached epidemic proportions.

“We can only see an increase at GPs and emergency doctors. Whether this is an epidemic or not can’t be determined yet – we need more data,” says SSI Chief Consultant Steffen Glismann MD, adding that Copenhagen is not the entire country.

Tests show many ill
The Institute receives samples from possible flu victims if there is a risk of serious illness or if patients have been in contact with someone who has H1N1.

“40 to 50 percent of the samples are positive,” Glismann says.