A Man Dies from Influenza A H1N1 in Armenia

The increase in respiratory infections and flu cases continues to be recorded across European countries. Armenia has also seen a rise in acute respiratory infections, despite a decrease in similar cases compared to the same period last year. Specifically, as of January 11, 2020, the number of visits to polyclinics due to acute respiratory infections decreased by 1.2 times, while hospitalizations for pneumonia dropped by 1.7 times. This information was reported by the Ministry of Health.

Currently, 668 patients are hospitalized in the republic's medical facilities for acute respiratory infections, marking a decrease of 1.1 times compared to the previous year, with 97.9% of those affected being children aged 0-18. The main burden of patients is concentrated in pediatric hospitals in Yerevan. All patients are receiving appropriate treatment and showing positive trends in recovery. In the intensive care units of medical facilities, 31 patients are being treated (down from 50 last year), most of whom are children aged 0-5.

Monitoring of the established temperature regime is also being conducted in educational institutions. As of January 10, deviations were recorded in 153 schools and 25 kindergartens. The Ministry of Health is providing daily updates regarding these deviations to the relevant organizations to implement necessary measures.

Continued laboratory testing results indicate that, since December of the previous year, the circulating strains in the republic include influenza A H1N1 and B, as well as agents of other respiratory infections (rhinovirus, bocavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus).

Unfortunately, one death was recorded yesterday, confirmed by laboratory studies to be due to the influenza A H1N1 strain. Epidemiological research revealed that the patient sought medical assistance in critical condition, experiencing respiratory distress on the tenth day of illness.

The best way to avoid flu and its post-flu complications is through vaccination. It is noted that all polyclinics in the republic are supplied with seasonal flu vaccines, and anyone who has not yet received the seasonal flu vaccine can visit their registered polyclinic for vaccination. Vaccinations are performed voluntarily and free of charge under the state order, with the general population also eligible for vaccination. Priority is given to risk groups, including pregnant women, children aged six months to five years, elderly individuals over 65, those with diabetes, chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, liver, and kidney diseases, as well as healthcare workers (pediatricians, family doctors, therapists, nurses, emergency, intensive care, ENT department personnel, epidemiologists and their assistants), conscript-age individuals, persons in closed organizations such as orphanages and boarding schools, and those in elderly and disability care facilities and mental health centers, along with their caretakers.

To prevent respiratory infections and flu, as well as their post-flu complications, the Ministry of Health strongly urges: get vaccinated against seasonal flu by visiting your registered polyclinic, avoid contact with individuals showing flu-like symptoms, if unwell, stay at home and seek help from your local pediatrician, therapist, or family doctor instead of self-medicating. Do not use antibiotics, as they are not indicated for the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections. Dress appropriately for the weather, adhere to coughing and sneezing etiquette, drink plenty of fluids, frequently ventilate closed spaces, and maintain personal hygiene.