A rapid increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections has been recorded in Ukraine. The Ministry of Health reports that the epidemiological threshold has been exceeded in five regions of the country, which is why additional quarantine measures may be introduced there. The list of regions where the indicators are exceeded includes Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Rivne, Khmelnytskyi and Chernivtsi regions, writes IZ.
As explained by the Ministry of Health, depending on the situation in each specific settlement, regional commissions on technogenic and environmental safety and emergencies may decide to introduce the so-called “local quarantine.” Among the possible measures are the transition to distance learning in schools and educational institutions, limiting the number of visitors in public places, and enhanced security measures in institutions and enterprises.
According to official data, 171,068 cases of acute respiratory viral infections were recorded in Ukraine over the past week, of which 104,843 were children. Compared to the previous week, the incidence rate increased by 13%. However, according to experts, this figure corresponds to typical indicators for the middle of the epidemic season and does not exceed the national epidemic threshold.
Medics note that the increase in the incidence rate is associated with the active circulation of influenza viruses, which are currently recorded in 22 regions of the country. According to forecasts, this trend will continue at least until April, and it is the influenza virus that will have a dominant influence, gradually displacing the coronavirus. The Ministry of Health urges citizens to follow preventive measures, get vaccinated, and consult a doctor at the first symptoms of the disease.
