COVID-19 Updates in Ukraine: New Cases and Recommendations
In the past week, Ukraine reported 3,540 new COVID-19 cases, which is three times higher than the previous week. However, the numbers are significantly lower compared to last year, when weekly cases reached up to 15,000.
This was stated by Oleksiy Danilenko, Deputy Director General of the Public Health Center, during a TV broadcast, as reported by a correspondent from Ukrinform.
“In the last week, we registered 3,540 COVID-19 cases. Compared to the previous week, we see a threefold increase, but in comparison to last year, we were recording over 10,000 cases weekly. This year, we are observing significantly lower rates,” he said.
According to Danilenko, the main factors contributing to illness rates among Ukrainians include: decreased immunity levels, active travel, non-compliance with protective measures, and the emergence of new virus variants.
“We are observing new virus strains in Ukraine - Stratus and Nimbus, with already two cases recorded,” he added.
Danilenko emphasized that these new strains are characterized by a higher transmission capability, but they do not lead to a more severe course of the disease.
“Complications may arise, especially in at-risk groups, but overall, new strains do not result in a more severe disease course. In most cases, the clinical presentation is limited to upper respiratory symptoms, quite similar to classic COVID-19. There may be instances of symptoms like hoarseness and sore throat, but overall, the clinical picture remains similar,” Danilenko assured.
He added that the new strains are more easily spread among children and young people, often manifesting as mild or asymptomatic forms, which is another reason for quicker spread among the population.
Danilenko urged the public to follow these recommendations upon noticing symptoms of illness.
“If you experience the first symptoms of illness, do not go to work. Stay home, do not put others at risk, and, of course, seek medical assistance and avoid self-treatment. We also recommend using protective gear in crowded places, especially when there are individuals showing symptoms of illness. Basic hygiene measures, such as hand disinfection and vaccination, are essential,” he explained.
