According to the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus, in line with the forecast, an increase in ARVI incidence and a rise in the circulation of influenza viruses are expected within several weeks. Concurrently with other viruses, the circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for over 80% of viral pneumonia cases, continues.
Since January 13, vaccination of the adult population against coronavirus infection COVID-19 has been carried out in the Lepel district. For immunisation this year, the "Konvasel" vaccine is being used. It is produced by the St. Petersburg Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency (Russia).This preparation employs a fundamentally new approach to developing vaccines for the prevention of coronavirus infection – the vaccine is created based on a recombinant N-protein (which does not exhibit variability regardless of the SARS-CoV-2 strain). Considering this, the vaccine is effective against all circulating SARS-CoV-2 viruses, both within our country and beyond.
According to information from the manufacturer, the vaccine's efficacy is 85.2%, and it possesses a favourable safety profile.
In September 2023, representatives of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus visited the production facility. It was noted that approximately 70% of the time spent on vaccine development is dedicated to quality control and safety.
The Ministry of Health primarily recommends vaccination against coronavirus infection for groups at increased risk of developing severe disease and at high risk of infection, in accordance with the instructions for medical use and the list of preventive vaccinations for epidemiological indications. This includes: individuals with immunosuppression (including those with HIV infection, autoimmune diseases, oncological diseases, etc.), individuals over 60 years of age, and individuals residing or working in institutions with round-the-clock accommodation.
Additionally, all citizens of our country who have reached the age of 18 and have no medical contraindications to vaccination can be vaccinated against COVID-19, free of charge, by visiting the polyclinic of the Healthcare Institution "Lepel Central District Hospital" and healthcare organisations at their place of residence.
The Ministry of Health reminds that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases.
Prepared using materials from the website of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus