Asuncion, IP Agency.- The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that the demand for flu consultations experienced an 11 percent growth in the last week, so it insists on frequent hand washing, room ventilation and annual vaccination, as well as the importance of complying with rest to avoid complications.
According to the report released by the health portfolio, Paraguay has simultaneous circulation of SARS-CoV2, which has been increasing for several weeks, followed by respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, influenza, metapneumovirus and parainfluenza.
The greatest impact of respiratory infections is maintained at the extremes of life: in children under 2 years of age and those over 60 years of age.
At the end of week (SE) 34, 36,796 flu consultations were reported nationwide. Compared to the previous week, there is an 11% increase in the demand for consultations in health services, so the trend curve continues to be above the alert threshold.
Regarding the hospitalization curve, 392 patients were hospitalized for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), of which 64% correspond to the pediatric age group, which is the most affected group; 50% are under 2 years old and 36% are adults, with 56% being over 60 years old.
The updated report indicates that so far this year, some 711 children under 2 years of age have been hospitalized due to RSV, which corresponds to 74% of the registered cases; 135 of them (19%) were admitted to the intensive care unit and 8 died.
Regarding hospitalizations associated with influenza, it is reported that 165 people in the age group over 60 years, which corresponds to 29% of the reported cases, were hospitalized and 15% required intensive care.
It was observed that among those hospitalized for influenza, only 5.2% had been vaccinated annually, while among those hospitalized with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV2 only 0.9% had access to immunization this year.
Covid-19 case
Week (SE) 34 closed with 419 confirmed cases of Covid-19, registering an increase of 68% compared to the previous week.
Currently, fifteen regions of the country have cases of the infection. More than 60% of COVID-19 cases are concentrated in Central (36%) and Asunción (26%). So far, the highest number of infections is seen in the 20 to 59 age group.
A total of 3,787 samples were processed for SARS-COV2 at the end of week (EW) 34, showing a high positivity rate of 11.1%.
During this period, 42 people were hospitalized for Covid-19, registering an increase of 20% compared to the previous week. Among those hospitalized, one was admitted to intensive care. The greatest impact among those hospitalized was identified in children under 5 years of age.
According to the updated report, one death was confirmed at the end of this week. So far this year, a total of 95 deaths from COVID-19 have been reported, with a predominance in the adult age group over 60 years old.
Genomic surveillance
The most frequent SARS-CoV-2 variant of Omicron sublineages recorded is LB.1 (BA.2.86.1.1.9.2.1.3), in Alto Paraná and Asunción. The second most frequent variant is JN.1, found in Asunción, Central, Alto Paraná.
The KP.3.1 variant (Capital, Central and Itapúa) and KP.2.2 were only detected in Alto Paraná.
In addition, a new variant MJ.1 has been identified (a sample from the Central department) for which there are only 50 sequences worldwide published in GISAID, according to the updated report from the Central Public Health Laboratory.
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2024-09-10 15:45:01
Paraguay healthcare system
Table of Contents
The State of Public Health in Paraguay: Achievements, Challenges, and Concerns
Paraguay, a country in South America, has made significant strides in public health in recent years. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Paraguay’s efforts in expanding healthcare services, particularly in the elimination of public health care charges [[1]]. This move has led to increased access to healthcare, especially for the underserved population.
In addition to this achievement, Paraguay has also strengthened its healthcare infrastructure. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has reported that 31 health facilities, including hospitals, family health units, and dispensaries, have undergone transformation, improving healthcare delivery in the underserved northeast region of the country [[2]].
Despite these advances, Paraguay still faces several public health challenges. A recent report by Amnesty International highlights the need for urgent improvements in the country’s public health system [[3]]. The report emphasizes the importance of addressing the right to health in Paraguay, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking of COVID-19, Paraguay has been experiencing a surge in cases, with a 68% increase in confirmed cases in week 34 compared to the previous week. According to the Ministry of Public Health, the country has reported 419 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with a high positivity rate of 11.1%. The majority of cases are concentrated in the Central and Asunción regions, with the highest number of infections seen in the 20 to 59 age group.
In addition to COVID-19, Paraguay is also grappling with an increase in respiratory infections, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, metapneumovirus, and parainfluenza. The Ministry of Public Health has reported an 11% increase in flu consultations in the last week, with 36,796 flu consultations reported nationwide.
To combat these public health challenges, the Ministry of Public Health has emphasized the importance of frequent hand washing, room ventilation, and annual vaccination. The government has also highlighted the need for genomic surveillance, with the most frequent SARS-CoV-2 variant of Omicron sublineages recorded as LB.1 (BA.2.86.1.1.9.2.1.3).
while Paraguay has made significant progress in expanding healthcare services and strengthening its healthcare infrastructure, the country still faces several public health challenges, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and respiratory infections. It is essential for the government and healthcare officials to continue to prioritize public health initiatives and address the concerns highlighted in the Amnesty International report to ensure the
Can flu cause permanent lung damage
Influenza and Pneumonia in Paraguay: Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Influenza and pneumonia are two of the most common respiratory illnesses that affect people of all ages worldwide. In Paraguay, these diseases are a significant public health concern, particularly during the flu season. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, influenza and pneumonia deaths in Paraguay reached 1,661, accounting for 5.57% of total deaths [[1]]. This article will provide an overview of the risks and precautions associated with influenza and pneumonia in Paraguay.
Risks of Influenza and Pneumonia
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can affect anyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable to severe illness, including children under 2 years old, adults over 60 years old, and people with certain chronic health conditions. Influenza can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections.
Pneumonia, on the other hand, is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, which can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Precautions Against Influenza and Pneumonia
The Ministry of Public Health in Paraguay recommends several precautions to reduce the risk of influenza and pneumonia:
- Annual Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against influenza annually is the most effective way to prevent the disease. According to the latest report, only 5.2% of those hospitalized for influenza had been vaccinated annually [[3]].
- Frequent Handwashing: Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Room Ventilation: Keeping rooms well-ventilated can help reduce the concentration of viral particles in the air.
- Rest: Getting enough rest and avoiding fatigue can help boost the immune system.
- Avoid Close Contact: Avoiding close contact with people who are sick can help prevent the spread of the virus.
Avian Influenza
In addition to the seasonal flu, Paraguay is also at risk of avian influenza, also known as bird flu. Avian influenza viruses can rarely infect and cause disease in humans, usually associated with close exposure to infected birds or animals [[2]].
Conclusion
Influenza and pneumonia are significant public health concerns in Paraguay, particularly during the flu season. By taking precautions such as annual vaccination, frequent handwashing, room ventilation, rest, and avoiding close contact, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting these diseases. It is essential for the public to be aware of the risks and take proactive measures to prevent the spread of influenza and pneumonia.
References
[1] World Life Expectancy. (2020). Influenza and Pneumonia in Paraguay. Retrieved from
[2] Travel Health Pro. (n.d.). Paraguay. Retrieved from
[3] di A Arbo. (
