Due to the current situation with COVID-19 infections in Poland and the rising number of patients hospitalized with severe cases of the virus, a joint statement on mask usage will soon be developed for government offices and institutions, Dr. Grzesiowski assured PAP.
"We confirm that the wave of infections is growing. It is difficult to estimate the exact number of cases as mass testing is no longer conducted, but the trend is definitely upward," said the doctor.
Although the peak of infections is predicted for mid-October, there are already increasing reports of deaths related to SARS-CoV-2 infections and additional conditions affecting the disease's progression.
"At-risk individuals, especially the elderly, should be prepared for the possibility of needing oxygen therapy or a longer hospital stay," added Grzesiowski.
The Chief Sanitary Inspector states that to prevent the spread of COVID-19, flu, and RSV in Poland, it is essential to recommend wearing masks and maintaining greater diligence in hand hygiene and surface disinfection.
Sanitary services will also strongly encourage testing for the coronavirus to quickly detect infections and prevent further spread.
Since early July, daily reports from the Ministry of Health in Poland have shown an increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections. By the end of July, there were about 200 cases per day, rising to 820 in August. These figures only account for tests ordered in hospitals and by doctors, privately conducted test results are not recorded.
Deputy Minister of Health Wojciech Konieczny also discussed the epidemic situation in Poland during his appearance on Polish Radio 24.
Source: PAP/GIS/PR24
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Click on the audio player above to listen to a report by Radio Poland's Agnieszka Bielawska.
