What is the Situation of Infectious Diseases in Armenia? Expert Clarification

There is a noticeable increase in several infectious diseases in Armenia compared to last year. This was stated by Stepan Atoyan, the director of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Armenia (NCDC), during a press conference regarding infectious diseases in the country.

“Compared to last year, there is an increase in measles cases. In 2023, there were 545 recorded cases, while until August 20 of this year, 547 cases have been recorded. Significant efforts are being made by the NCDC, the ministry, and other partners, and we also remind everyone about vaccinations. More people have been vaccinated against measles this year compared to last year, with approximately a 1.8% decrease in cases. Additionally, we have seen an increase in whooping cough cases; a similar situation was observed in 2017-2018. During that time, there were 237 cases, while this year, there have been 50 cases reported, and so far this year, we have 98 cases. The overwhelming majority of affected individuals are preschool-aged children,” Atoyan noted.

He also emphasized that there is an increase in acute respiratory infections compared to last year.

Regarding monkeypox, Atoyan stated that the risk of infection in our region is low. This disease is transmitted sexually or through contact with an infected animal's skin or when consuming its meat. African countries, such as the Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda, are considered areas at risk for this disease.

This year, there has also been an activation of syphilis cases in Armenia. It is a bacterial disease, not viral, and is predominantly found in school-aged individuals. Atoyan assured that the situation regarding this disease in Armenia is stable.