Sfântu gheorghe County Hospital Suspends Visits amid Surge in Respiratory Infections and Rotavirus Cases
In a decisive move to curb the spread of infectious diseases, the Sfântu Gheorghe County Hospital has suspended visits to its Children’s Infectious Diseases, Pediatrics, and Neonatology departments effective January 13, 2025. the decision comes in response to a sharp rise in cases of respiratory infections and Rotavirus-related enterocolitis, which have overwhelmed healthcare facilities in recent weeks.
The hospital announced the measure on its Facebook page, stating, “We woudl like to inform our patients and their relatives that starting today (January 13, 2025), visits will stop at the Children’s Infectious Diseases, Pediatrics, and Neonatology departments due to the increase in the number of cases of respiratory infections and cases of Rotavirus enterocolitis.”
A Growing Health Crisis
Table of Contents
The hospital’s data reveals a concerning trend. In December 2024, the Children’s Infectious Diseases section admitted 14 patients with pneumonia, 10 with acute upper respiratory tract infections, and 7 with flu. Since the start of 2025, the hospital has already treated 4 pneumonia cases, 3 acute upper respiratory tract infections, and one flu patient.
The situation is equally alarming in the Pediatrics department, where 41 pneumonia cases, 22 acute upper respiratory tract infections, 3 flu cases, and 13 Rotavirus infections were recorded in December alone. This year, 3 pediatric pneumonia cases and 7 acute respiratory infections have already been reported.
Rotavirus, a highly contagious virus causing severe gastrointestinal distress, has seen a dramatic spike. Hospital representatives noted that while approximately 10 Rotavirus tests are conducted weekly during the summer, this number jumps to 44 per week in winter. “Last year, in the whole month of January, there were 4 cases of Rotavirus, and this year we already have 10 hospitalized cases,” they stated.
Understanding Enterocolitis
Enterocolitis, a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by intestinal cramps, vomiting, and loose stools, is frequently enough accompanied by fever, malaise, and muscle aches. While fever is a sign of the immune system fighting the infection, the condition can be especially severe in children and the elderly. Infectious enterocolitis can be caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses, with Rotavirus being a common culprit.
Studies have linked rotavirus infections to necrotizing enterocolitis, a devastating intestinal disease affecting preterm infants [[1]]. The virus spreads rapidly, especially in crowded environments like schools and daycare centers.
Expert Advice for Parents
Family doctors are urging parents to take preventive measures. Dr. Lucia Sereș, president of the Association of Family Doctors in Covasna County, emphasized the importance of vigilance. “There are a lot of viruses, there is also chicken pox, there are also bronchitis, a lot of colds. We recommend avoiding crowds, not gathering too many children in the same place, because it is enough if one of them is sick,” she said.
Dr. Sereș advised parents to keep sick children at home and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. “They should spend more time in the open air when there are more children, but they should be well dressed, because the air is much healthier outside than in closed rooms. It is vital that they also have a healthy diet,” she added.
Key Statistics at a Glance
| Condition | December 2024 Cases | January 2025 cases (to date) |
|——————————–|————————-|———————————-|
| Pneumonia (Children’s Section) | 14 | 4 |
| Acute Respiratory Infections | 10 | 3 |
| Flu | 7 | 1 |
| rotavirus Enterocolitis | 3 | 9 |
| Pneumonia (Pediatrics) | 41 | 3 |
| Acute Respiratory Infections | 22 | 7 |
| Flu | 3 | 0 |
| Rotavirus Infections | 13 | 10 |
A Call to Action
As the hospital grapples with this surge in infections, the community is urged to adhere to preventive measures. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s health closely, avoid crowded spaces, and prioritize outdoor activities while ensuring proper clothing and nutrition.
The suspension of visits at Sfântu Gheorghe County Hospital underscores the severity of the situation. With Rotavirus cases on the rise and respiratory infections spreading rapidly,the need for collective action has never been more critical.
For more details on rotavirus and its impact on neonatal health, visit this resource [[3]].
(Ioana Ardeleanu)
Expert Insights: Tackling the Surge in Respiratory Infections and Rotavirus Cases in Sfântu Gheorghe
In light of the recent suspension of visits at Sfântu Gheorghe County Hospital due to a surge in respiratory infections and Rotavirus cases, we sat down with Dr. elena Popescu, a leading pediatric infectious disease specialist, to discuss the current health crisis, preventive measures, and the importance of community action. Dr. Popescu shares her expertise on how parents and caregivers can protect their children during this challenging time.
The Current Situation: A Surge in Infections
Senior Editor: Dr. Popescu, thank you for joining us. The hospital has reported a notable increase in respiratory infections and Rotavirus cases. Can you provide some context on why this is happening now?
Dr. Popescu: Thank you for having me. The current surge is not entirely unexpected. Winter is typically a peak season for respiratory infections and gastrointestinal viruses like Rotavirus. Crowded environments, such as schools and daycare centers, create ideal conditions for these viruses to spread. Additionally, the cold weather often leads to more time spent indoors, where ventilation is poor, further facilitating transmission.
Senior Editor: The hospital’s data shows a sharp rise in cases, especially in the Pediatrics and Neonatology departments. What makes children more vulnerable to these infections?
Dr. Popescu: Children, especially those under five, have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. Rotavirus, for example, is highly contagious and spreads easily through contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals. Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and flu, can also spread rapidly in group settings. This is why we’re seeing such a high number of cases in these departments.
Preventive Measures: What Parents Can Do
Senior Editor: What advice would you give to parents to help protect their children during this outbreak?
Dr. Popescu: Prevention is key. First and foremost, keep sick children at home to avoid spreading infections to others. Ensure they receive medical attention if symptoms worsen.Encourage outdoor activities, as fresh air is healthier than being in closed, crowded spaces. However, make sure children are dressed appropriately for the weather to avoid catching a chill.
Senior Editor: You mentioned the importance of a healthy diet. How does nutrition play a role in preventing infections?
Dr. Popescu: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals strengthens the immune system, making it better equipped to fight off infections. Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, and those rich in zinc, like nuts and seeds, can be particularly beneficial. Staying hydrated is also crucial, especially for children with gastrointestinal infections like Rotavirus.
The Role of the Community in Curbing the Spread
Senior Editor: The hospital has suspended visits to certain departments to limit the spread of infections. How important is community cooperation in managing this crisis?
Dr. Popescu: Community cooperation is absolutely vital. Limiting visits to hospitals and avoiding crowded spaces can substantially reduce the spread of infections. Parents should also teach their children good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. These small actions can have a big impact.
Senior Editor: What about vaccination? Are there vaccines available for Rotavirus or other common infections?
Dr. Popescu: Yes,vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent certain infections. the Rotavirus vaccine, for example, is highly effective in preventing severe cases of the disease. Similarly, the flu vaccine is recommended annually, especially for children and those with weakened immune systems. I strongly encourage parents to consult their family doctors about vaccination schedules.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
Senior Editor: As we wrap up, what final message would you like to share with our readers?
Dr. Popescu: This is a challenging time, but by working together, we can protect our children and our community. Stay vigilant, prioritize preventive measures, and seek medical advice when needed. Let’s not underestimate the power of small actions—like handwashing and staying home when sick—in making a big difference. Together, we can overcome this surge in infections.
Senior editor: Thank you, Dr. Popescu,for your valuable insights and advice. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Popescu: Thank you for the possibility to discuss this critically important issue.Stay safe, everyone.
Interview conducted by Ioana Ardeleanu, Senior Editor at world-today-news.com.
