Since September 29, the epidemic season has begun in Ukraine, that is, during this period, the number of cases of respiratory viral seasonal diseases, such as SARS, COVID-19, and influenza, begins to increase among the population.
According to the results of the first week of monitoring the incidence, doctors registered 129,753 cases of SARS and COVID-19, of which 76,342 cases were among children. During the week, 3,510 patients with SARS were hospitalized in the country's hospitals, of which 1,787 were children; COVID-19 was confirmed in 5,038 people, and 10 deaths due to complications were registered. According to doctors, the deceased did not have preventive vaccinations against coronavirus infection.
Regarding the flu, this season, as in previous ones, influenza A and B viruses are expected to circulate. The increase in incidence usually occurs during the cold season.
The most effective prevention of COVID-19 and influenza is annual vaccination, especially for people at risk. Vaccination against influenza does not protect against COVID-19 and vice versa. Instead, vaccination against these diseases can be done on the same day or with a minimal interval.
COVID-19 vaccinations remain free for the population. Currently, doctors are using Pfizer's omicron-specific Comirnaty vaccines for adults and children. You can get vaccinated by contacting your family doctor.
By updated recommendations The Ministry of Health recommends that most people receive one COVID-19 vaccination. Revaccination every 6-12 months is recommended for people from at-risk groups:
- adults and children who have weakened immunity or concomitant or severe chronic diseases;
- pregnant women;
- people over 60 years old;
- adults and children who are at risk of severe illness and death due to coronavirus infection;
- representatives of professional risk groups (for example, doctors, teachers, military personnel, etc.).
In severe cases, the flu can cause dangerous complications: damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, etc. That is why annual vaccination against the flu is recommended, although it is not included in the list of free vaccinations. French and Korean-made flu vaccines have been available in pharmacies since the beginning of October. They are certified and have passed state quality control.
Chuhuyiv branch of the State Institution "Kharkiv Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine"«