Tomsk Region Sees Surge in ARI Cases, Influenza Threshold Unmet
The Tomsk region in Russia has seen a significant increase in acute respiratory infections (ARI) cases, with a more than 100% rise across all age groups in the past week. Despite this, the influenza epidemic threshold has not been exceeded, and no severe cases have been reported among vaccinated patients.
As of September 15, 47,367 people in the region have received the influenza vaccine, including 11,944 children. This year, a total of 466,280 doses are expected, with 261,240 already received. Notably, the largest increase in ARI cases was observed among children aged 7 to 14, with a twofold rise. During the past epidemic season, only 145 out of 2,112 infected individuals were vaccinated, representing a mere 6.8%.
No separate classes or educational institutions were closed for quarantine due to ARI over the past week. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent influenza, as stated by Olga Pichugina, head of the Tomsk region's consumer protection department. In 2024, the vaccination coverage rate reached 54.8%, with 487,917 people vaccinated.
While the Tomsk region has witnessed a substantial rise in ARI cases, the influenza epidemic threshold has not been breached. Vaccination efforts continue, with over 47,000 people already vaccinated this year. However, the increase in ARI cases among children aged 7 to 14 is a cause for concern, and further preventive measures may be necessary.
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