High Level of Illness Activity: Children are the Target

There is a high level of illness activity related to acute respiratory diseases and flu in the country. In an interview with Armenpress, Evgenia Khachatryan, an epidemiologist at the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health, noted that this activity is recorded in both outpatient clinics and hospitals. A high level of activity is observed in the Ararat, Armavir, Gegharkunik, and Tavush regions, but the highest rates are present in Yerevan.

“According to the latest data, 661 patients are receiving inpatient treatment, of which about 95 percent are children aged 0-18. Seventeen children are being treated in the intensive care units of children's medical facilities in Yerevan. The most vulnerable are those aged 0-4, as the disease progresses severely in this age group,” said Evgenia Khachatryan.

Continuous monitoring is being conducted in preschool and school institutions. The collected data show an increase in the number of absences.

A representative of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention noted that the H3 subtype of influenza A is currently circulating in Armenia, which in some cases leads to a more severe course of the illness. The symptoms are similar to those characteristic of acute respiratory infections: runny nose, sore throat, general muscle pain, and headache. It may be accompanied by fever or without it.

It is recommended to frequently ventilate rooms, disinfect hands, and adhere to anti-epidemic rules. Evgenia Khachatryan stated that one of the important preventative measures is also wearing masks, which will help break the chain of infection.

Vaccination is key to preventing the flu. Evgenia Khachatryan mentioned that vaccines are available in polyclinics, and those interested can apply.

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