This Tuesday, March 26, the Minister of Health, Ximena Aguilera, decreed a health alert due to the increase in the circulation of seasonal respiratory viruses, mainly SARS-CoV2, Influenza A, Adenovirus and Rhinovirus. Along with this, the mandatory use of masks in emergency services was established.
Furthermore, according to the latest report from the World Health Organization, dated February 16, 2024, SARS-CoV2 and COVID-19 still represent a threat to the population. “This is because the PCR test continues to be positive and the number of reported cases of SARS-CoV2 in the last 28 days has increased, especially in the Region of the Americas,” said the academic and researcher from the Faculty of UNAB Nursing, Denisse Cartagena-Ramos.
Contrasts with the previous year
According to the teacher, in February of this year there was an increase of 1% in urgent care compared to the previous year and, according to consultations, there was an increase of 9.5% compared to the previous year and emergency hospitalizations with an increase of 6% compared to 2023 and 13% to 2019.
“As for SARS-CoV2, the JN.1 variant, recently discovered between August and November 2023, remains predominant in at least 50 countries. In Chile, an increase in this variant has been observed, especially during the winter period, although there is little evidence on the consequences that this variant may have on the population,” he added.
What should we know about vaccines?
If you are 60 years old or older, have a chronic condition and are between 11 and 59 years old, have a child from 6 months to 5th grade, or are pregnant; Go to your health center until May 15 to receive the flu vaccine.
If you do not yet have your complete COVID-19 vaccine vaccination schedule, go to your health center to complete your schedule.
If you received your last dose of COVID-19 vaccine 12 months ago, go to your health center to receive a COVID-19 booster
If you do not know the location of your vaccination center, access the following link.
For more information about the influenza vaccination process, access the following link.
For more information about the Covid-19 vaccination process, access the following link
Some recommendations to avoid the contagion and spread of these seasonal viruses:
Wash your hands frequently and maintain general hygiene measures.
Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing.
Prevent children under one year of age from having contact with sick people.
Wear a mask on public transport (micro, train, bus, bus, subway or other).
Avoid smoking inside the home.
Clean surfaces with disinfectants that have alcohol and chlorine.
Wear a mask if you suspect you are sick.
Receive the Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
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