New Epidemic Season: How to Protect Yourself from Flu and COVID-19 in Modern Conditions
As autumn and winter set in Ukraine, a new epidemic season of acute respiratory diseases, including influenza and COVID-19, begins.
Officially starting on September 29, this season will last until May 17, 2026.
Experts from the Public Health Center warn that during this period, the number of cases may significantly exceed epidemic thresholds, making prevention measures more critical than ever.
Influenza remains the most dangerous among respiratory illnesses, often leading to severe complications and potentially fatal outcomes.
In this season, circulating influenza viruses include subtypes A (H1)pdm09 and A (H3), as well as type B.
The most effective method of protection continues to be vaccination.
Annual immunizations help prevent severe disease and provide a more stable immunity throughout the season.
Medical professionals recommend vaccination in early autumn—September or October—when infection rates are still low, but vaccination opportunities remain available throughout the season.
Vaccination is especially important for seniors, children from 6 months old, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, and frontline workers such as healthcare providers, educators, and military personnel who have daily contact with large groups of people.
To get vaccinated, you can visit your family doctor or purchase vaccines at a pharmacy.
Additionally, collective vaccination events organized by employers or local authorities can enhance community immunity.
Besides vaccination, daily hygiene practices are crucial: washing hands regularly with soap for at least 30 seconds, wearing masks in crowded places, ventilating rooms, and maintaining social distancing.
Remember to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing, and stay home or wear a mask if you feel unwell to prevent virus spread.
Regarding COVID-19, Ukraine offers modern mRNA vaccines, such as COMIRNATY from Pfizer, which protect against all current strains, including Omicron and its subvariants.
Vaccination remains the most effective measure to avoid severe illness.
Anyone requiring vaccination should contact their healthcare provider or local health facility at their convenience.
It is vital to continue following personal hygiene guidelines and adapt daily habits to strengthen immunity against infections.
Despite the war, Ukrainians have somewhat forgotten about COVID-19, but new cases still appear, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
Official sources underscore that a comprehensive approach—combining vaccination, hygiene, and behavior modification—is the best way to safeguard health in these challenging times.