The Number of Serious and Critical Patients is Approximately 650, 47 of Whom Are on Artificial Ventilation Machines: Arsen Torosyan

During the weekend, around 1000 new cases of coronavirus infection were registered in Armenia. This was stated by Health Minister Arsen Torosyan during a press briefing following a meeting of the commandant's office.

"The numbers for Sunday are lower than those for Saturday due to the lower number of tests conducted. However, in terms of percentage, we have almost the same picture. That is, about 30 percent of the tests conducted are registered as new positive cases. This is, of course, good in the sense that there is no growth. However, it is bad in the sense that these numbers remain high in absolute terms. This means that our problem remains the same: to continue carrying out our activities so that we also see a decline in absolute numbers," said Arsen Torosyan.

According to him, as of yesterday, Armenia's bed capacity has reached 2600 beds, of which 2300 are regular beds and about 300 are for intensive care. "The occupancy rate of this bed fund remains high, especially in the intensive care units. Even now, while we have a few free beds in the ICUs, they are quickly filled. The number of serious and critical patients is approximately 650, of whom 47 are on artificial ventilation machines. The situation is relatively favorable for our citizens waiting at home. As of 3 PM, we have no citizens who urgently need hospitalization but are not hospitalized. This is an indicator that allows us to assess how adequate our facilities are for the current situation," the minister added.

According to Arsen Torosyan, it is proven that wearing masks is effective. If this were not the case, we would have significantly more cases recorded daily than we currently do.