Every day, between 200 and 230 patients visit the Batken Regional Unified Hospital, most of whom are diagnosed with "influenza." The infectious diseases department has only 45 beds, and currently, 44 of them are occupied. In response to the rising number of patients, an additional 18 beds have been set up, and a new block has been opened.
“The situation with influenza remains critical. Every evening, we receive 200–230 patients. We hospitalize those who are in serious condition. Currently, there are 44 patients in our department, some of whom, who were on additional beds, have already been discharged as they are recovering and continue treatment on an outpatient basis. At the moment, we have enough space, doctors, and medications,” said the head of the infectious diseases department, Kanibek Junusaliev.
According to him, “this disease is referred to as acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI) here.” The number of cases has significantly increased, with a maximum of 40–50 visits recorded per day. The viruses that cause influenza are resistant to low temperatures, which is why their activity increases during the autumn-winter period. These infections affect the upper respiratory tract and can lead to pneumonia. Many patients experience a fever rising to 40 degrees, and antipyretic medications are not always effective immediately. Therefore, doctors use additional methods, such as humidifying the air and other medications.
Common symptoms include a dry cough that is difficult to relieve even with inhalations, as well as weakness, headache, runny nose, and loss of appetite. Patients are found among both children and adults. In case of a shortage of beds in the hospital, staff work closely with the regional hospital to coordinate hospitalizations. In severe cases, when the infection affects the lungs, patients are hospitalized, while outpatient treatment is recommended for mild conditions. Although the disease occurs annually, the number of visits has significantly increased this year. Doctors urge the population to maintain personal hygiene, wear masks in public places, and avoid crowds when experiencing symptoms,” noted family doctor Aizada Aydarali kyzy from the Batken Regional Family Medicine Center.
