A medical professional examining a patient. (Archive photo)
Rospotrebnadzor, Russia`s federal service for consumer rights and human well-being surveillance, has reported a significant escalation in acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) nationwide. According to their latest press statement, the incidence of ARVI increased by a notable 63.8% compared to the previous week.
During the 37th calendar week, over 696,000 cases of non-influenza ARVI were recorded across the Russian Federation. The rise was particularly sharp among schoolchildren, with reported cases doubling within this demographic. This upward trend is considered a typical seasonal pattern, attributed to the conclusion of mass vacation periods and the subsequent assembly of children in organized groups, such as schools and kindergartens.
In parallel with the observed increase in respiratory illnesses, Russia is continuing its national influenza vaccination campaign. The agency confirmed that more than 10 million citizens have already received their flu vaccinations as part of these efforts.
Furthermore, Rospotrebnadzor highlighted a persistent, albeit currently low, increase in COVID-19 cases. For the same 37th week, the country registered over 15,000 new cases of COVID-19, indicating the continued circulation of the virus despite its overall prevalence remaining at a contained level.
