The incidence of acute respiratory viral infections has increased dramatically in Russia: symptoms, treatment and prevention

In Russia, a significant increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) has been noted over the past week. In total, more than 696 thousand cases of acute respiratory viral infections of non-influenza etiology were registered. For more information on how to recognize the symptoms of the virus in adults and children and on preventive measures, see the Izvestia article.

An increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections has been recorded in Russia

A significant increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections has been recorded in Russia over the past week. According to Rospotrebnadzor, the number of cases in mid-September increased by 63.8% compared to the previous week, while the incidence among schoolchildren doubled. In total, more than 696 thousand cases of acute respiratory viral infections of non-influenza etiology were registered. This growth is associated with the end of vacations and the beginning of the school year, when children form new teams.

Classes are gradually being quarantined in some regions. So, in the Balakovsky district of the Saratov region, three classes in two schools went into quarantine due to an increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections. Since September 16, quarantine has been introduced in two classrooms of school No. 27 and one classroom of school No. 15. Previously, no such mass restrictions were registered in the region.

As Izvestia found out earlier, the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza increased in at least ten regions from September 1 to September 7. We are talking about Irkutsk, Kursk, Sverdlovsk and Amur regions, as well as Udmurtia, Karelia and Bashkiria.

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And vaccination is being carried out to combat the widespread spread of the disease. More than 10 million people have already been vaccinated against the flu, according to Rospotrebnadzor.

However, experts also point out that the incidence of COVID-19 continues to increase, although the level remains relatively low: over 15,000 new cases were registered at week 37.

Symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections in adults and children

The first signs of the disease include general weakness, fever (usually up to 37-38.5 degrees), headache, muscle aches, scratching and sore throat. A runny nose with clear discharge, nasal congestion, and sneezing often appear. As the disease progresses, a cough may develop — first dry, then with sputum separation, hoarseness of voice, chest pain.

In children, the symptoms may be more pronounced: fever, vomiting, convulsions, changes in behavior (agitation or drowsiness). Infections are especially severe in children under 3 years of age, when complications may develop, such as laryngotracheitis or bronchitis.

Incubation period and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections

From the moment of infection to the appearance of the first symptoms, it usually takes from 1 to 5 days, on average about 2-3 days. The virus is transmitted by airborne droplets, as well as by contact with contaminated surfaces.

The main rule for acute respiratory viral infections is rest and plenty of water. Doctors advise staying at home, regularly ventilating the room and maintaining optimal air humidity. At the first signs of illness, it is recommended to stay at home and consult a doctor.

Prevention of acute respiratory viral infection treatment

To prevent acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to avoid large gatherings of people, wash hands frequently for at least 30 seconds, ventilate rooms and maintain immunity with a balanced diet, vitamins and hardening. Flu vaccination is especially relevant in the autumn and winter period.

Rospotrebnadzor stressed that it is also important to rinse the nose with saline solution and gargle three times a day. The agency also recommends taking a responsible approach to choosing clothes: they should be comfortable, made of natural fabrics and suitable for weather conditions. Experts recalled that the most reliable protection against influenza is annual vaccination, carried out before the start of the seasonal rise in the incidence.

If you have a headache, runny nose, cough and other symptoms, it is better to stay at home, even if your body temperature is not elevated above 37 degrees. Rest and timely treatment increase the chances of an easy and quick recovery, as well as prevent the further spread of infection.