Currently, the Vitebsk region is observing a slight increase in the incidence of the new type of coronavirus infection; however, the epidemiological situation in the region remains under control. This was reported by Mikhail Vishnevetsky, Head of the Main Healthcare Department of the Regional Executive Committee.
Currently, the Vitebsk region is observing a slight increase in the incidence of the new type of coronavirus infection; however, the epidemiological situation in the region remains under control. This was reported by Mikhail Vishnevetsky, Head of the Main Healthcare Department of the Regional Executive Committee.
– This trend in the autumn period was predictable and due to the end of the holiday season, the start of the academic and working year, and increased population density in cities. There is no significant increase in the incidence of coronavirus infection among the region's residents associated with travel to other countries. The infection predominantly occurs in mild and moderate forms, – said Mikhail Leontievich.
Currently, the hospitalisation of COVID patients, including those with pneumonia, is carried out in infectious disease hospitals and departments based on clinical indications. The provision of care for residents with severe disease is concentrated in the regional infectious disease hospital. Hospitals that were involved during the seasonal surge are now operating in normal mode.
– Considering the experience gained, we can say that we are prepared for a possible second wave. The healthcare system has a sufficient bed capacity, equipment, and trained medical personnel. There is experience in repurposing medical facilities. In each hospital, the deployment of additional beds is planned if necessary, and lists of departments and positions that ensure medical care for COVID-19 patients have been developed. In case of an increase in incidence, the facility or individual structural units will be repurposed, – emphasised the head of the regional healthcare department.
Furthermore, healthcare institutions and hygiene and epidemiology centres in the region are working to organise medical care and sanitary and anti-epidemic measures during the inter-epidemic period. Preparations have also been made for functioning during the period of increased incidence of acute respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19.
The influenza vaccination campaign will commence shortly. There is a body of scientific evidence suggesting that vaccination may have a positive effect in preventing COVID-19. Vaccination with modern adjuvant vaccines not only leads to the formation of specific antibodies against influenza virus strains but also to the early activation of cellular mechanisms of antiviral immune response, resulting in a reduction in the incidence of influenza, acute respiratory infections, and, apparently, coronavirus infection.
Medical professionals also remind the public that individual preventive measures should still not be neglected. These primarily include social distancing, wearing a mask in crowded places, regular use of hand sanitizers, and adherence to respiratory etiquette.
In the region, inpatient medical rehabilitation for patients who have had pneumonia associated with COVID-19 infection continues. Currently, this is being carried out by Branch No. 1 "Krupenino" of the Regional Diagnostic Center and the Regional Hospital for Veterans of the Great Patriotic War "Yurtsevo". As of early September, approximately 800 people have undergone inpatient rehabilitation. Medical professionals are also assisting with recovery from "COVID" on an outpatient basis in all healthcare facilities in the region.