Health professionals urge vigilance, symptomatic management as influenza cases surge in Georgia

Ivane Chkhaidze, the medical director of Iashvili Central Children’s Hospital in Tbilisi, on Friday said the influenza virus was showing an increasing trend in the country, urging citizens to stay indoors in the case of symptoms and manage the virus. 

The medical professional stressed that during the 49th calendar week of 2023, the confirmed cases of influenza stood at 16%, while within the subsequent two weeks, this figure escalated to 27%. He emphasized that the number of laboratory-confirmed flu cases had doubled in the last two weeks.

“Influenza has now become the dominant health concern in the country, with flu virus statistics following an upward trajectory. Analyzing data from the National Center for Disease Control, a comparison between the 49th and 51st weeks of 2023 reveals a nearly twofold increase in laboratory-confirmed flu cases. Starting at 16% in the 49th week, this figure rose to 27% after a two-week span,” he said. Chkhaidze further added that symptoms such as a temperature of 38 degrees celsius and above, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and general weakness may indicate the presence of the flu virus. In children, these symptoms are often accompanied by increased sleepiness, refusal of food, and fussiness, he noted and emphasized that especially in young children, such cases should be promptly addressed by a healthcare professional.

Highlighting the contagious nature of the flu, Chkhaidze urged infected individuals, both children, and adults, to take necessary precautions to protect others.

“The recommended approach involves symptomatic management. In cases of a temperature of 38 degrees celsius and above, use antipyretics, increase fluid intake, including tea, water, and freshly prepared juice, and, most importantly, stay at home,” Chkhaidze said.