Three viruses at once: what Belarusians need to know in the 2026–2027 season

The Republican Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health warned Belarusians that three viruses could spread simultaneously in the upcoming epidemic season.

What viruses are predicted in the season 2026-2027

Experts expect that in the epidemic season of 2026-2027, three groups of pathogens will simultaneously spread in the country: non-influenza respiratory viruses, influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2. Currently, various non-influenza viruses are registered in Belarus - in particular, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, MS viruses, bocaviruses, seasonal coronaviruses and metapneumoviruses. At the same time, the situation for acute respiratory infections (ARI) remains stable and corresponds to the typical picture for this time of year.

Vaccination against influenza: drugs, timing and risk groups

Medical institutions in Belarus are completing preparations for the annual vaccination campaign against influenza and COVID-19. In the season 2026-2027, the composition of influenza vaccines has been completely updated for all three components, taking into account the recommendations of the World Health Organization.

For immunization of the population at the expense of budgetary funds, the Grippol Plus vaccine of Russian production will be used. The first deliveries of the drug are expected in early October.

First of all, vaccination is recommended for people from high-risk groups:

• children from 6 months to 3 years old;

children over 3 years of age and adults with chronic diseases and immunodeficiency states;

• people over 65 years of age;

• pregnant women;

• medical and pharmaceutical workers;

• persons staying or working in institutions with round-the-clock stay;

• employees of state bodies responsible for state security and life support of the population.

Those wishing to be vaccinated are advised to inform in advance of their intention to the specialists of the clinic at the place of residence. It is also possible to get vaccinated at your own expense.

Vaccination against COVID-19: who is especially indicated

To protect against COVID-19 infection, the Convasel vaccine (Russian-made) is used in Belarus. Vaccination is especially advisable to do:

- adults with immunosuppression, including people with HIV infection, autoimmune, oncological and oncohematological diseases;

- persons aged 60 years or older;

- adults living or working in institutions with round-the-clock stay.

The main goal of vaccination is to reduce the risk of severe disease and adverse outcomes. In order for immunity to have time to form, vaccinations are better done before the active spread of viruses, without postponing the procedure for November-December.

How to get vaccinated and what to know before getting vaccinated

Special preparation for vaccination is not required. The main condition is the absence on the day of vaccination of acute disease or exacerbation of chronic pathology. Before the introduction of the vaccine, the patient must be examined by a doctor.

Additional ARI prevention measures

In addition to vaccination, experts emphasize the importance of non-specific preventive measures:

observance of personal hygiene and “respiratory etiquette” (when coughing and sneezing, use a napkin or cover your mouth and nose with an elbow bend);

• regular ventilation of premises and wet cleaning;

maintaining a healthy lifestyle – adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, physical activity;

minimize contact with people who have signs of the disease.

Photo: Belt archive