Asturias has recorded an increase in infections caused by different respiratory viruses, such as syncytial virus, coronavirus or influenza virus. In light of this increase, the Principality’s health authorities recommend that all people with respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, congestion or sneezing, use masks when in enclosed spaces, health centers or when visiting elderly people to prevent the spread of the viral infection.
Health Remember, the use of masks can effectively prevent the spread of these diseases; especially in enclosed places such as entertainment venues, public transportation, or places where health care is provided.
In the last week of 2023, there has been a significant increase in severe acute respiratory infections again, especially in people over 65 years old and under 5 years old, mainly caused by influenza viruses, which are responsible for more than 60% of influenza infections. case. The most spreading variant is influenza A (H1N1), the variant used in the vaccine.
The Principality’s Health Service (Sespa) has contingency plans in place that are activated when influenza and other respiratory viruses cause increased pressure on emergency services and hospital admissions. These plans include specific options for providing quality and effective care to patients. Planned measures include providing necessary beds and strengthening the workforce, especially nurses and assistants.
Across the healthcare network, there has been a significant increase in demand, particularly on emergency services, which is currently being addressed through network response in all centres, and no measures have been necessary so far. Extraordinary, such as suspending elective surgeries.
Tips to reduce the spread of the virus:
• Use a mask when showing symptoms of respiratory viruses, mainly in enclosed spaces, health centers or when visiting the elderly.
• If you have any type of symptoms, avoid gatherings, especially in enclosed places, to avoid infecting others.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue. If you don’t have a tissue, you should cough and sneeze into your sleeve (in the crook of your elbow) to avoid contaminating your hands.
• Throw away tissues after use.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Keep enclosed spaces well ventilated.
• Clean surfaces that are touched by hands, such as doorknobs or switches, frequently.
Who should get vaccinated?
Additionally, vaccination continues to be recommended for all high-risk groups as long as respiratory viruses continue to circulate. To gain greater immunity, vaccination must be done before the peak of the epidemic, expected in the coming weeks.
The vaccine is suitable for people over 60 years of age, people living in residential and disabled centers, high-risk groups under 60 years of age, people with chronic diseases, pregnant women and people who live with people who are more immunosuppressed. Except for smokers and essential service workers.
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