Increase in Acute Respiratory Infections Activity in the Republic, Ministry of Health Reports

The Ministry of Health reports that the incidence of acute respiratory infections (ARI) has increased by nearly 1.5 times compared to the previous week.

The breakdown of incidence based on age groups is as follows:

• In children under 4 years old, the incidence has risen by 1.5 times;
• In the 5-14 age group, it has increased by 1.7 times;
• In the 15-29 age group, it has risen by 1.4 times;
• In the 30-64 age group, it has increased by 1.3 times;
• In individuals aged 65 and older, it has risen by 1.6 times.

According to the recorded data, the incidence has increased across all age groups. The intensity of pneumonia diagnosed in outpatient and polyclinic organizations has increased by approximately 1.1 times compared to the previous week. The percentage of emergency calls related to ARI accounts for 13.1%, which represents an increase of 3.3% from the previous week.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing acute respiratory infections, including seasonal flu, has become crucial. The best and most effective measure for preventing seasonal flu is vaccination, which is available and has been implemented in outpatient and polyclinic organizations for over ten years.

It is worth mentioning that all polyclinics in the republic are equipped with seasonal flu vaccines, and all at-risk individuals who have not yet been vaccinated can go to their registered polyclinic to receive the vaccine. Vaccinations are conducted on a voluntary basis, free of charge, within the framework of the state order, prioritizing at-risk groups such as pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 5 years, individuals aged 65 and older, people with diabetes, those with chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, liver, and kidney conditions, healthcare workers, soldiers, and personnel in closed institutions. The vaccine is also available for other population groups.

Once again, we urge you—if you have not yet been vaccinated against the seasonal flu, please visit a polyclinic and get vaccinated to protect yourself and your loved ones.