ROME - A total of 25 people have been killed by the A/H1N1 flu virus in Italy since the beginning of this year, authorities said Thursday.

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The latest victim of the virus was a 51-year-old man who died on Thursday. The man was hospitalized in January and suffered from respiratory problems. Two other people, who contracted the influenza virus, are being treated on Thursday in emergency units and their conditions are serious.

A total of 14 people infected by the virus are currently lying in hospital beds receiving medical treatment.

Authorities expect the flu peak to hit between January and February. Italian Health Minister Ferruccio Fazio has launched a nationwide appeal to all Italians for immediate vaccination against the influenza A/H1N1 virus, especially children, old people, pregnant women and all those suffering from chronic diseases.

An emergency network consisting of 14 units has been set up across the country to monitor infection cases, while several cities have adopted vaccination campaigns to boost people's awareness and protect their health. Vaccination against the virus is free and available at all public medical centers.