Western Ukraine is seeing a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, particularly in Lviv, Volyn, and Ivano-Frankivsk regions. Experts say the situation is worsening, with new data showing the disease spreading across age groups.
Regional statistics and trends
According to the Lviv Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of COVID-19 cases in Lviv region has increased to 496 over the past week, which is 293 cases more than the previous week. In particular, among the sick are 54 children, of whom 50% are children under 4 years old. Among the sick are also 22% of people over 65 years old. 8% of the sick require hospitalization.
The Volyn Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports a sustained increase in the incidence of COVID-19 over the past two weeks. Last week, 101 cases of the disease were recorded, which is three times more than in the previous week. The vast majority of patients have a mild form of the disease. The Omicron strain is actively circulating in Volyn, in particular its variant JN.1 (Jenny). A new subvariant of the coronavirus “FLiRT” has not been detected at this time.
In Ivano-Frankivsk region, Ruslan Savchuk, director of the regional center for disease control and prevention, reported that 1,829 people with suspected COVID-19 were tested in July, 7.7% of whom were confirmed to have the disease. Compared to June, the number of positive tests increased by 11.9%.
New subvariant “Omicron” in Ukraine
Ukraine has recorded three cases of a new subvariant of the coronavirus “Omicron” called “FLiRT”. These cases were registered in July – two in Kyiv and one in Ivano-Frankivsk region. Deputy Minister of Health and Chief State Sanitary Doctor Ihor Kuzin explained that the new subvariant “FLiRT” is more likely to affect people with weakened immunity and can even infect previously vaccinated individuals. However, acquired immunity after vaccination reduces the risk of serious complications.
Experts urge the public to be more cautious and adhere to preventive measures. It is important to continue vaccination, adhere to mask wearing and social distancing, and seek medical attention at the first signs of illness.
