The incidence of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in September in the district was at the level of the average indicators for the last two years. A rise in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections is traditionally observed.

As a rule, during this period, ARI incidence rises due to the formation of new groups in preschool institutions and schools, as well as people returning from summer holidays.

This year in the Republic of Belarus, according to the Ministry of Health, traditional non-influenza viruses are circulating – rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, which has become seasonal, including "stratus", which is actively occupying its niche in Belarus. The new Omicron subvariant does not cause severe illness.

      According to the recommendation of the World Health Organization, the most effective means against influenza is vaccination, as it is the vaccine that provides protection against those types of influenza virus that are most relevant in the current epidemiological season and are included in its composition. Influenza vaccination is recommended to be scheduled for October-November – this is an effective measure in preparation for the season with a higher incidence rate.

By getting vaccinated against influenza, you protect your body from the attack of the most dangerous viruses – influenza viruses, but there are still respiratory viruses that are less dangerous for humans, but can also cause acute respiratory infections. During the epidemic rise in ARI and influenza incidence, it is recommended to take non-specific preventive measures:

reduce the time spent in crowded places and public transport;

wear a mask in crowded places;

avoid close contact with people who show signs of illness, such as sneezing or coughing;

wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap, especially after being outdoors and using public transport;

rinse your nasal passages, especially after being outdoors and using public transport;

regularly perform wet cleaning and ventilate the room you are in;