More than 6 thousand residents of the Ulyanovsk region fell ill with SARS in a week

The autumn cold season in the Ulyanovsk region is gaining momentum: from September 7 to 13, 6,166 cases of SARS and influenza were registered. There are more cases than a week earlier, but the figure is still about 30% lower than the annual average.

Despite the increase in appeals, it is too early to talk about the beginning of the flu epidemic. According to infectious disease specialist Yana Saranskaya, no cases of influenza have been detected in the region at the moment. The September rise is mainly associated with other respiratory infections.

Rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, parainfluenza viruses, seasonal coronaviruses, MS virus and metapneumovirus can now circulate. COVID-19 is also a possible cause of respiratory illness. At the same time, it is impossible to determine a specific infection only by temperature, cough, runny nose or sore throat.

Especially carefully monitor the state of health is recommended for the elderly, patients with chronic diseases and weakened immunity. Small children require special attention: the MS virus is able to affect the lower respiratory tract, and metapneumovirus - lead to bronchitis and pneumonia. There is no noticeable increase in MS virus infection, but the situation will be monitored more closely from October to December.

The active spread of influenza usually begins later - in late November or December, and the largest number of cases occurs in the winter months. Several variants are expected to circulate in the 2026/2027 season, including A(H3N2), A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza B.

Therefore, September and October are considered a good time for vaccination: the body must have time to form immune defenses before the virus is actively spread. First of all, vaccination is especially relevant for the elderly, people with chronic diseases, pregnant women, children, students and those who are in daily contact with a large number of people.

In case of illness, experts advise to stay home and reduce contacts. Antibiotics against viruses do not work and should be used only as directed by a doctor. The reason to seek medical help can be prolonged high fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, pain or compression in the chest and severe deterioration of health.