Hong Kong Flu Circulating in Armenia: Who is at Risk?

The situation related to acute respiratory infections and influenza in the country continues to be tense. Experts note that although there is a slight decrease in illness rates compared to the second half of December, the situation remains unstable.

“We still have a high incidence rate. Compared to the same period last year, the incidence is 1.8 times higher. Specifically, high activity is observed in the Ararat and Tavush regions, while moderate intensity is noted in Yerevan and other regions. As of January 4, there are 592 patients hospitalized in medical organizations, 94% of whom are children aged 0-18. I should mention that 13 patients are in intensive care, most of whom are children aged 0-5, who are experiencing a more severe case of the disease,” said Romella Abovyan, head of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Infectious and Non-Infectious Disease Epidemiology Department, during a press conference at the Armenpress press hall.

According to Sergey Sargsyan, an advisor in pediatrics at the Ministry of Health, the situation in children's medical institutions is tense. The rate of visits is higher than average. Of course, the school holidays that began before the New Year had a certain impact on the spread of the disease, but according to Sergey Sargsyan, medical facilities continue to work under strain.

“Now it is noticeable that those visiting medical institutions were infected while visiting each other's homes during the holidays. Sick children are being brought in, starting from 44 days old. Currently, the H3N2 strain, or Hong Kong flu, is circulating, targeting children aged 0-5. For several days, symptoms include fever, ear inflammation, and there are cases of pneumonia,” said Sergey Sargsyan.

Since the symptoms of coronavirus and influenza are the same, specialists advise against self-medication in case of their presence and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for appropriate examination. Experts noted that many engage in self-medication during acute respiratory infections, which complicates the clinical course. Patients are admitted to medical institutions in quite a severe condition.

“There is a great risk that these patients are using antibiotics at home, which are simply not indicated for viral diseases. This further complicates the situation,” said Romella Abovyan. Specialists urge the public to follow anti-epidemic rules and seek medical help in a timely manner.