Synopsis
As of January 31, Romania reported over 133,000 acute respiratory infections and eight flu-related deaths in one week, with the Ministry of Health declaring an epidemiological alert due to the rising health crisis.Key Takeaways
- Romania recorded 133,635 acute respiratory infections.
- Eight flu-related deaths reported in one week.
- Vaccination efforts are lagging despite high infection rates.
- Preventative measures are being reinforced by the Ministry of Health.
- Transmission occurs through airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces.
Bucharest, Jan 31 (NationPress) Romania has reported 133,635 cases of acute respiratory infections along with eight deaths attributed to the flu during the week spanning January 20 to 26, according to the National Institute of Public Health (INSP).
This statistic reflects a 6.5 percent rise compared to the prior week, bringing the season's total of flu-related fatalities to 22. Clinical cases of influenza surged to 10,950, up from 6,994 the week prior.
Despite the increasing number of infections, the vaccination uptake remains inadequate. As of January 26, over 1.13 million individuals have received the influenza vaccine.
In light of the escalating health crisis, Romania’s Ministry of Health has issued an epidemiological alert, encouraging preventative measures in educational institutions and enhancing vaccination campaigns, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
A respiratory infection affects the respiratory system, encompassing the nose, throat, sinuses, bronchi, and lungs.
These infections can arise from various pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Common viral respiratory infections include the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19, while bacterial infections can result in conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis.
The severity of respiratory infections can vary significantly, influenced by the type of pathogen and the individual's general health.
Typical symptoms include coughing, sneezing, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
In more severe instances, respiratory infections may lead to complications such as pneumonia, which could necessitate hospitalization and medical treatment.
Transmission of respiratory infections generally occurs via airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They may also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Prevention tactics include maintaining good hygiene by frequently washing hands, using tissues to cover coughs and sneezes, wearing masks in crowded settings, and steering clear of close contact with those who are infected.
Vaccination is available for some viral respiratory infections, including influenza and COVID-19, to mitigate the risk and severity of infection.
