COVID-19 cases rise in Armenia

The Armenian Health Ministry announced a notable increase in COVID-19 infections last week.

"Over the past seven days, COVID-19 cases have risen by 22.5 per cent compared to the previous week," the ministry stated, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media.

The average incidence of acute respiratory viral infections remains at typical seasonal levels, with a 1.2-fold increase in cases over the last week. The Health Ministry considers this rise to be within normal seasonal expectations. Some 71 per cent of COVID-19 cases have been reported among individuals under 18 years old. During this period, no influenza strains have been detected, although cases of rhinovirus are being observed.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.

However, some become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. 

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. It is necessary to stay at least 1 metre apart from others, wear a properly fitted mask, and wash hands or use an alcohol-based rub frequently. It is required to be vaccinated and follow local guidance.

The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate.

By Naila Huseynova