this is who is at risk of getting seriously ill

by times news cr

However, NVSC specialists remind that the disease of COVID-19, influenza and other acute upper respiratory tract infections (UARI) are characterized by the same path of spread, and the rise in morbidity is recorded in the autumn-winter months.

Diseases are recorded throughout the year

Considering the epidemiological situation of the COVID-19 disease (coronavirus infection), from 2022 In Lithuania, as in other European countries, the COVID-19 disease has been integrated into the epidemiological surveillance of influenza and other acute upper respiratory infections (AURI). The NVSC monitors the overall dynamics of the incidence of influenza, COVID-19 disease and other infectious diseases throughout the year.

From July The number of cases of COVID-19 disease increased, only in the last week (August 12-18) there was a slight decrease (267 cases in the 28th week, 347 cases in the 29th week, 648 cases in the 30th week, 807 cases in the 31st week , 1407 on the 32nd, 1377 on the 33rd).

“According to week 32 data from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the increase in the activity of the COVID-19 virus began approximately 6 weeks earlier than in 2023. in summer, but the trends are similar. Currently, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 in health care facilities is highest among those aged 65 and over, indicating that vulnerable populations are still at risk of developing severe disease.

An increase in cases of the COVID-19 disease is also observed in Lithuania, which was registered 4 weeks earlier than in 2023. Thus, a similar situation is being observed in Lithuania as in Europe,” points out Greta Gargasienė, advisor of the Infectious Diseases Management Department of the NVSC.

What is the predominant strain of COVID-19?

The currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant BA.2.86 and its subvariants (often referred to in the media as FLiRT variants and including lineages KP.2 and KP.3) continue to dominate. There is no evidence that they are more dangerous, associated with a greater severity of infection, or significantly reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine.

Maintain hygiene, especially when traveling

We remind you that in gatherings, for example at airports, closed concerts, it is important not to forget the measures for the prevention of infectious diseases.

“It is very important to wash your hands as often as possible, if it is not possible to wash them (with soap and water) – to disinfect them. It is also important to follow cough/sneeze etiquette, avoid touching surfaces that may be contaminated with viruses, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with dirty hands.

If you experience cold-like symptoms (throat or headache, nasal congestion or runny nose, etc.), stay at home or work from home, do not travel, do not visit places where people gather, avoid contact with other persons (if contact cannot be avoided – wear a medical mask or respirator) , contact your family doctor and follow his recommendations”, – the advisor names preventive measures.

2024-08-21 13:01:00

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