A surge of two dangerous diseases has been recorded in Kyiv: how to protect yourself.

Epidemic of measles and hepatitis A in Kyiv

Capital epidemiologists are investigating simultaneous outbreaks of two dangerous infectious diseases. The highest number of measles cases was registered in April, and the outbreak of hepatitis A is concentrated in the Vidradne area.

The General Director of the State Institution 'Kyiv City Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health' and chief public health officer of Kyiv, Serhiy Chumak, reported an outbreak of measles and hepatitis A in Kyiv. 'Currently, we have an outbreak of measles in the city of Kyiv. We have registered 41 cases of measles, and the majority of these cases occurred in April. Out of these, 29 cases were only in April,' Chumak noted.

According to him, 18 cases of measles have been recorded in one of the capital's schools. The doctor connects the mass infection with children being in a bomb shelter with an infected child during an air raid. 'Measles is a highly contagious disease. Of 10 people who come into contact with an infected person, nine become ill,' he emphasized.

Regarding the situation with hepatitis A, Chumak indicated that most of the infected children live or study in the Vidradne area. 'The highest concentration of sick children is on Vidradne, Tarantsia, Havelia, and Shalimova streets,' the specialist clarified.

Preventive measures and investigation

Epidemiologists have already collected water samples from fountains, schools, and the water supply network. Currently, no deviations have been detected, but additional checks of the water in a nearby lake are planned.

'As of today, we have sent letters to the State Food and Consumer Service for an investigation into the possible food transmission routes of the infection in school institutions. We also contacted Kyivvodokanal for water supply schemes of the neighborhood and information about accidents on water pipes in the last two to three months,' explained the chief sanitary doctor of Kyiv.

According to Chumak, Kyivvodfond has already started repair work in the fountains of the Vidradne area, and the results of the water laboratory tests will be analyzed after the work is completed. The information has been sent to city and district administrations for necessary measures to be taken.

Doctors recommend vaccination against measles and hepatitis A as the main method of infection prevention. To prevent hepatitis A, it is also important to follow hygiene rules, avoid contact with infected individuals, and consume only safe water and food. In case of disease symptoms, it is necessary to immediately consult a doctor.

Earlier in Kyiv, 34 cases of hepatitis A were recorded, of which 20 were in children. Specialists continue to do everything possible to identify the causes and further prevent the spread of infections.