Adenoviruses and Para-gripp: Health Ministry details the current outbreak scenario

As the autumn season approaches, health officials in Belarus are urging everyone to take precautions against the expected rise in respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.

The Ministry of Health has predicted that the season for Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs), flu, and COVID-19 will begin in October, peaking in late January - February 2026. This prediction comes as the current ARI structure shows a prevalence of non-flu respiratory viruses such as parainfluenza, adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, RS viruses, seasonal coronaviruses, metapneumoviruses, and others.

One of the new viruses that have been making headlines is the "Stratus" virus, a descendant of the "Omicron" variant. Although the new virus strain XFG Stratus has not been detected in our country, the virus is highly contagious and has been shown to cause a change in voice, hoarseness, or huskiness, which is a characteristic symptom of the disease it causes.

Doctors are reminding everyone to thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables and follow personal hygiene rules, as these measures can help prevent the spread of both ARIs and gastrointestinal infections. This advice comes as there has been a slight (22%) increase in infections caused by viruses such as noroviruses, rotaviruses, and enteroviruses. Additionally, there has been an increase in acute gastrointestinal infections at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, which is often linked to children returning from holidays in countries like Turkey and Egypt.

On a positive note, the current ARI rates in Belarus are low, and the level of COVID-19 infection is also low, according to the Ministry of Health. The currently observed dominant COVID-19 virus variant is the LP.8.1 sublineage of the Omicron variant, which is also the preferred target for vaccines beginning in autumn 2025, according to FDA guidance. This variant is noted in vaccine updates, but there is no specific mention of Belarus distinct from this global variant trend.

With the onset of autumn, a usual rise in disease rates is expected due to changes in weather conditions and the start of the academic process in educational institutions. It is important for everyone to take the necessary precautions to stay healthy during this season. By following health guidelines, we can help prevent the spread of these viruses and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

Adenoviruses and Para-gripp: Health Ministry details the current outbreak scenario