COVID-19 News: More Than 1000 Weekly COVID-19 Cases In Paraguay Despite Low Testing Rates
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 28, 2024 2 months, 4 weeks, 2 days, 8 hours, 11 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: In a recent update from the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare, Paraguay finds itself grappling with a concerning surge in COVID-19 cases, reporting over 1,000 infections in the last epidemiological week. Despite low testing rates, the nation is witnessing a disturbing 29% positivity rate, prompting concerns about the true extent of the virus's spread.
More Than 1000 Weekly COVID-19 Cases In Paraguay Despite Low Testing Rates.
Epidemiological Overview
The data reveals that a substantial 995 COVID-19 infections were confirmed during the third epidemiological week, reflecting a worrisome average incidence rate of 19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over the past two weeks. Paraguay currently faces a Level 1 community transmission, with varying transmission levels across different departments.
Asunción, Ñeembucú, and Guairá present a high Level 3 transmission, indicating a significant spread of the virus, while Central, Misiones, and Pdte. Hayes report Level 2 transmissions, signifying a moderate level of transmission. This diverse landscape of transmission levels highlights the complex nature of the pandemic within the country.
Hospitalization Trends
The hospitalization curve depicts a surge in COVID-19-related hospitalizations, with 94 patients hospitalized in the past week - 91 in general wards and 3 in intensive care units. Of notable concern is the fact that, over the last eight weeks, 51% of those hospitalized are females. Moreover, the elderly, particularly those over 70, constitute the highest percentage of hospitalizations, followed closely by the 0 to 4 age group, emphasizing the vulnerability of these demographic segments.
Fatalities and Demographics
Over the last eight weeks, 68 COVID-19-related deaths have been recorded, with 13 occurring in the most recent week. The elderly, specifically those over 80 years old, account for the highest percentage of fatalities. This demographic trend underscores the severity of the virus among the elderly population, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions and protective measures.
https://www.mspbs.gov.py/
Genomic Surveillance and Variants
Genomic surveillance reports from the Central Public Health Laboratory reveal the presence of two subvariants of the Omicron variant in Paraguay: XBB 1.9.2 (EG.5 or Eris) circulating since September, and BA2, detected since December 86, along with its subvariant JN1 reported on January 15, 2024. Despite the presence of these variants, global health organizations, including the PAHO/WHO, currently assess the public health risk as low, with no documented increase in severity or virulence.
Vaccination Imperative
According to
COVID-19 News updates by the Minsitry of Health in Paraguay, the government has started a vaccination booster initiativ
e and also opened more vaccination outlets.
https://twitter.com/msaludpy/status/1751009529653825998
Preventive Measures
As the nation grapples with the surge, adherence to preventive measures becomes essential:
-Proper Mask Usage: Individuals with respiratory symptoms must wear face masks appropriately, and their use is pivotal when visiting healthcare facilities.
-Respiratory Hygiene: Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with the inner elbow flex is recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
-Hand Hygiene: Regular and thorough handwashing is emphasized as a crucial preventive measure.
-Ventilation: Ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed environments is vital to reduce the risk of viral transmission.
-Social Distancing: Avoiding close contact with individuals displaying respiratory symptoms, such as coughing or sneezing, remains essential in preventing further spread.
Conclusion
Paraguay finds itself at a critical juncture in its battle against COVID-19, with rising cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities. Robust genomic surveillance, continued vaccination efforts, and strict adherence to preventive measures are imperative to curb the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations. As the nation navigates through this challenging phase, a collective commitment to public health measures is essential in mitigating the impact of the pandemic.
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COVID-19 News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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