Brace Yourself, Almaty! Flu and Respiratory Infections on the Horizon
Anticipated Peak of Flu and SARS Outbreak in Almaty: Predicted Timeline for Viral Spike
Looking ahead to late November, Almaty doctors are sounding the alarm about an anticipated rise in flu and respiratory infections, as reported by Almaty.tv.
"The forecast from Almaty's epidemiological service suggests a surge in both Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) and flu cases towards the end of November this year. The epidemiological season will hit its peak in the first quarter of 2021," stated Almaty's Chief Sanitary Doctor, Zhandarbek Bekshin.
He warned that this season's outbreak might coexist with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, making it a tricky time for public health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) anticipated high activity of multiple influenza strains in the northern hemisphere (including Kazakhstan) for the 2020-2021 fall-winter season. WHO recommends that four strains be included in the composition of upcoming 3- and 4-valent influenza vaccines: two type A strains (H1N1 and H3N2) and two type B strains (Washington and Victoria lineage, and Phuket and Yamagata lineage).
According to Bekshin, 3-valent influenza vaccine "Grippol Plus" of Russian production has been purchased with local budget funds for free vaccination of risk groups in Almaty, totaling 130 thousand doses. He added that an application for an additional 300 thousand doses has been submitted, with delivery expected in October.
Free vaccinations are planned for medical workers, children over 6 months old who are frequently ill and in children's homes, as well as residents of elderly homes, disabled individuals, pregnant women in their second and third trimester with epidemic indications, and people over 60 years old.
All other Almaty residents can receive vaccination on a paid basis or through their employers. Take note that immunity is formed within 14 days.
As the flu and respiratory infection season approaches, it's crucial to follow public health guidelines, such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing to avoid an overwhelming spread of illnesses, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay vigilant and protect your health!
Keep in mind that the actual number of cases in Almaty and the specific trends during this epidemiological season can be impacted by a variety of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, non-pharmaceutical interventions, and other regional factors. For more detailed forecasts or data, consult specific epidemiological reports or studies from health organizations such as WHO or local health authorities in Kazakhstan.
Stay informed, Almaty! Keep embracing a healthy lifestyle, and, above all, always prioritize your well-being. December might be a bit frisky with respiratory germs; buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride!
- Almaty's epidemiological service has noted an anticipated surge in Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) and flu cases towards the end of November, according to Almaty's Chief Sanitary Doctor, Zhandarbek Bekshin.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has anticipated high activity of multiple influenza strains in the northern hemisphere, including Kazakhstan, for the 2020-2021 fall-winter season.
- Bekshin stated that the 3-valent influenza vaccine "Grippol Plus" of Russian production has been purchased for free vaccination of risk groups in Almaty.
- Free vaccinations are planned for medical workers, children over 6 months old who are frequently ill, residents of elderly homes, disabled individuals, pregnant women in their second and third trimester with epidemic indications, and people over 60 years old.
- Following public health guidelines, such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing, is crucial to avoid an overwhelming spread of illnesses during the approaching flu and respiratory infection season.
- It's important to stay informed about the specific trends during this epidemiological season, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, by consulting specific epidemiological reports or studies from health organizations such as WHO or local health authorities in Kazakhstan.
