Georgia: Influenza virus statistics are growing

According to Ivane Chkhaidze, medical director of Iashvili Central Children’s Hospital and professor of TSU, “influenza virus cases in Georgia are on the upward curve”. He also advised people to stay at home if they have flu like symptoms.

He further said, “Flu has become dominant in the country, virus statistics are on an upward curve – flu is contagious and if you have symptoms, stay home”, which is necessary for the safety of others. It is to be specifically mentioned that in the 49th calendar week of 2023, the confirmed cases of influenza were 16%; after two weeks, this figure became 27%”.

He added that “Influenza has become very dominant in the country in last weeks. Flu virus statistics are on an upward curve, which is dangerous. Looking at the data from the National Center for Disease Control, if we compare the data for the 49th and 51st weeks of 2023, the number of laboratory-confirmed flu cases has practically doubled”.

Moreover, If in the 49th week, this figure was 16%, after two weeks, this figure became 27%. Anyone with a temperature of 38 degrees and above, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and general weakness indicates the presence of the flu virus. In children, all this is added to increased sleepiness, refusal of food, and fussiness. All this points to the presence of the flu virus, especially in young children. In that case, there is an urgent need to visit the doctor.

He also said “The recommendation refers to symptomatic management. In case of temperature (38 and above) use of antipyretic and intake of large amounts of fluids – it can be tea, water, or freshly prepared juice. Be sure to stay at home.

Influenza is contagious, and it is dangerous for children and adults, so if you have these symptoms, it is very important to stay at home”.It is to be noted that he also warned that if immediate steps are not taken now, then there will be more threats to public safety as well.