Should we fear a new wave of epidemics due to the Russian-Ukrainian war?

So far, only 69 out of 5,000 tests carried out up to mid-March came back positive. This low proportion is quite promising, but should we fear a new wave of epidemics? Here is what the experts say.

According to a volunteer doctor in Beregsurány, COVID-19 is not common among refugees, but colds and stomach problems are more frequent. Basically, all those refugees who arrive with upper respiratory complaints such as sore throat, fever, or cough symptoms are tested for coronavirus – rtl reported. The majority of them are tested negative which is quite promising.

According to the Ministry of Human Resources,

so far 69 out of 5,000 tests carried out up to 9th March came back positive which is less than 1.5%.

However, experts say caution is important, as the Ukrainian health system is less developed than in Hungary. Another important aspect is that there are fewer compulsory vaccinations for children in Ukraine. Thus, many diseases can easily spread to neighboring countries.

The question of a new pandemic wave is divisive among the experts.

According to the Hungarian virologist, Miklós Rusvai there is no realistic chance that a new wave will break out due to the refugee situation. The weather is warming up and they do not pose a greater threat than tourists, he added.

In contrast, pediatrician György Póta, who volunteers at a refugee reception point, said that the low vaccination rate in Ukraine can be a critical point. Therefore, the expert does not completely rule out the possibility of another epidemic wave. He also added that they can give vaccinations against COVID-19, flu and measles to refugee children. These are important initiatives because a fever of 40 degrees that lasts several days can be extremely dangerous for weakened bodies – reported by 24.hu.

Read also: Hungarian ppl gathered €1.8 million for Ukrainian refugees through aid line

In addition to maintaining our physical health, we should also look after our mental health. Soon after the pandemic is over, we have to face a new critical situation around us: the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war. But how can we mentally survive all these shocking events? This question is examined in the freshly published book of Hungarian psychotherapists Katalin Zana and Tihamér Bakó – Portfolio reported. The experts reveal how to deal with traumatic events and how to strengthen ourselves. An important point is to understand how certain feelings – fears, anxieties – can be linked to what is happening in the present or even past experiences. We can talk about this with family members and friends. It can often be reassuring to see that others are feeling or thinking about the situation in a similar way. According to the experts, we need to find ways and means within ourselves to shield ourselves against the consequences of the crisis.

Read also3,337 Ukrainian refugees arrive in Budapest on Monday

Source: 24.hu, rtl.hu, portfolio.hu