Covid-19 incidence on rise, but situation in not alarming - CDC

RIGA - The incidence of Covid-19 in Latvia is increasing, but the situation is not alarming, Larisa Savrasova, a representative of the Latvian Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), said in an interview with commercial TV3 television today.

The increase in the number of hospitalized patients and the proportion of Covid-19 positive test materials are both evidence of the increase in the incidence, she said.

In the summer, about 16 Covid-19 patients were hospitalized per week, while in September the average number was 39 per week. However, the proportion of Covid-19 positive test materials detected per week has increased from 5-10 percent in the summer to 24 percent in recent weeks, Savrasova said.

She attributed the increase in Covid-19 to a variety of natural factors largely linked to the arrival of autumn - children returning to school, more active use of public transport and more indoor activities.

There is no reason to believe at this stage that the new Covid-19 is more dangerous than the previously known variants. According to CDC, its symptoms are similar to those already known, but so far there is no information that those affected by the Eris variant have developed severe breathing difficulties. 

Savrasova urged people to be cautious and follow routine epidemiological precautions, while those with weakened immunity and increased health risks should wear face masks when in crowded places.