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The government's commission for emergency situations declared a nationwide epidemic of influenza virus on Tuesday.

No specific safety measures are being put in place as of yet, however.

"The situation is not extreme," Interior Affairs Minister Raimundas Palaitis told journalists after the commission meeting.

An epidemic is declared when the number of people infected rises to over 100 per 10,000 inhabitants.

In recent days, the influenza virus – known as 'gripas' in Lithuanian – has travelled from southern regions to communities in the country's north where hundreds of people now lie in hospital, thirteen of whom are in intensive care.

All hospitals in Lithuania are now under quarantine – no visitors are being allowed. Weekend working hours at hospitals and medical clinics have been extended. Media have reported numerous complaints of staff shortages at hospitals and medical facilities in recent days.

The government has recommended the cancellation of all public events, and has advised people working with members of the general public to wear masks.

Government officials have tried to calm fears over a reported shortage of medicines for treating flu, such as Tamiflu, saying fresh shipments have been received or are on their way.

Palaitis said employees in key institutions – such as transport, public security, energy and other sectors – will be provided with masks and sanitary gloves.

If the situation deteriorates, a national emergency could be declared. Under this scenario, very strict safety means would be put in place – all public events would be banned, and schools, kindergartens, and universities would be closed.