An eight-month-old child awaits vaccination at a medical center in the Shevchenkovsky district of Kiev. Flu in Europe and Central Asia: how to protect yourself and your loved ones? Healthcare
The flu season in Europe and Central Asia began much earlier than usual: the spread of infection is facilitated by the emergence of a new dominant strain of the virus. A number of countries are experiencing a serious burden on their healthcare systems. The WHO recommends that the population follow simple protective measures to protect themselves and others during the winter.
Influenza season started about four weeks earlier than in previous years, according to surveillance data. Of the 38 countries in the WHO European Region that provide information, at least 27 are already reporting high or very high incidence rates. In six countries Ireland, Kyrgyzstan, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia and the United Kingdom more than half of patients with flu-like symptoms tested positive for influenza.
New virus variant
“Influenza returns every winter, but this year the situation is somewhat different,” said Hans Kluge, Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO/Europe). The spread of infection is due to a new strain of the influenza virus. subclade K. There is no evidence that it causes more severe disease, but this variant of seasonal influenza already accounts for up to 90 percent of all confirmed cases in the region. This clearly shows how even small genetic changes in the virus can create a huge burden on healthcare systems, since the population does not have developed immunity.”
Although vaccination does not always prevent infection, preliminary data from the United Kingdom confirms that current seasonal vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness. Vaccination remains the most important measure to prevent severe influenza, especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly, those with chronic diseases, children and pregnant women. Medical workers are also included in the priority group to protect both their own health and the health of their patients.
As in previous years, school-age children remain the main carriers of infection. However, the majority of severe cases requiring hospitalization occur in people aged 65 years and older. They especially need vaccination.
How to stay safe this winter
The number of cases is expected to rise until the peak of the season, which will likely be in late December early January. Most people recover on their own, but if symptoms are severe or there are underlying conditions, you should seek medical help. vaccination – this is the best protection, especially for at-risk groups and health care workers, who should also follow infection control measures and wear a mask if necessary.
- Prevent the spread infections – stay at home if you feel unwell; If you have respiratory symptoms, wear a mask in public places; cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing; wash your hands regularly; ventilate rooms more often. decades of experience in fighting influenza, there are safe vaccinations that are updated annually, and a proven set of effective measures. If we use these tools—vaccinations, responsible behavior, and strong public health systems to protect the most vulnerable—we will overcome this predictable seasonal threat.” sources – national health authorities and WHO. During a challenging flu season, trusted, fact-based information can save lives.”