Condition of Children Transferred to Gyumri Infectious Diseases Hospital Remains Moderate

Children who presented with symptoms characteristic of intestinal infection at the Gyumri Infectious Diseases Hospital on June 25 are in moderate condition. Currently, 16 children and 7 adults are receiving inpatient treatment at the hospital. They will remain hospitalized today, according to hospital director Astghik Beybutyan.

The children, who came from Shirak province, consumed kebabs prepared in home conditions in the area known as "Jardi Dzor," which were stored under non-refrigerated conditions. Their health worsened later while they were already in Gyumri.

“The children started to experience nausea and vomiting. An ambulance was called, and they were transferred to the infectious diseases hospital. Of the 43 individuals who sought medical assistance, 23—16 children and 7 adults—are receiving inpatient treatment and will stay with us for another day. The others are still under our supervision. After undergoing another round of medical examinations, they may be able to return home,” said Astghik Beybutyan.

Considering that people often spend time outdoors or travel during the hot season, the Ministry of Health warns and urges the public to observe several important rules for safe and proper relaxation: do not give children dishes that contain sausage, ham, meat, chicken, fat, cheese, or eggs unless you have refrigeration or other means to keep these products fresh; avoid serving salads to children that can spoil quickly in hot weather and lead to severe food poisoning; do not store food in the car for more than an hour; avoid berries and fruits and vegetables that spoil quickly—such as grapes, cherries, peaches, etc.—and prefer carrots, pears, and apples; consume only high-quality and epidemiologically safe food; when preparing barbecues, ensure that the meat is well-cooked (ensure complete thermal processing); when using eggs, it is desirable to wash the shell with a weak solution of food soda before breaking; use personal or disposable dishes and hygiene supplies; drink only clean water—boiled or bottled, and avoid water from natural sources; create conditions for frequent handwashing (before every meal and after using the toilet) and wash fruits and vegetables with running water; and do not swim in unknown and suspicious water bodies.