Possible increase of Covid in winter raises concerns

InfoGripe Bulletin from Fiocruz warns that many states, which had a reduction in the number of SRAG cases, show a trend of reversal or increase. The analysis refers to the Epidemiological Week (SE) 19, from May 9 to 15. As soon as the temperatures drop, we soon notice someone sneezing, or having a runny nose, a possible flu, and in times of pandemic, the fear increases due to Covid-19. The InfoGripe Bulletin from Fiocruz has just released that the incidence of respiratory diseases - which in severe cases requires hospitalization or even leads to deaths - is currently largely due to infections by Covid-19 and that some states are showing an increase in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndromes and Covid. According to the research, eight of the 27 states showed an increase in cases, such as Amazonas, Maranhão, Mato Grosso do Sul, Paraíba, Paraná, Tocantins, Federal District, and Rio de Janeiro. Among the others, there are signs of interruption of the downward trend, as seen in Bahia, Espírito Santo, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Sergipe, and São Paulo. For pulmonologist Jessica Polese, with the approach of winter and temperatures already falling, extra care is needed with a possible flu or allergy to avoid it becoming pneumonia. "This period sees an increase in the incidence of respiratory viruses, and the risk of contracting Covid-19 can be more severe," points out Jessica. "The risk of developing pneumonia, for example, can lead the patient to hospitalization, which at the moment is not a good alternative due to the risks that may occur," explains Jessica. "Moreover, with lower immunity, the risk of contracting Covid increases, so it is not favorable to give ourselves the chance to catch a flu; precautions must be doubled," explains the pulmonologist. Jessica also emphasizes the need for caution in times of easing quarantine: "The capital Vitória is at Moderate Risk, and some operating hours have been extended, classes have resumed, etc. However, we continue to ask the population to be careful, wear masks, and maintain distance, especially during this time as winter approaches and respiratory diseases increase," she concludes.