Coordination Meeting : Prevention and control of seasonal infectious diseases

A coordination meeting on the prevention and control of seasonal respiratory infectious diseases, which tend to occur during the rainy season, was held on May 23. Union Minister Professor Dr. Thet Khaing Win highlighted that there has been a recent increase in the transmission of seasonal influenza and COVID-19 in several countries, including some neighboring countries and other regional nations.

Although a slight rise in COVID-19 transmission has been observed in the region, the circulating COVID-19 Omicron variants XBB and JN.1 are not associated with increased disease severity or mortality. It was emphasized that current COVID-19 vaccines effectively reduce the risk of severe illness and death.

He stressed that the public will be widely educated about seasonal influenza and COVID-19, ensuring they receive timely health information and follow proper personal preventive measures. During the meeting, officials provided updates on ongoing surveillance and vaccination efforts. It is learnt that the Ministry of Health continues to release weekly reports on COVID-19 surveillance in Myanmar. 

Although there has been a slight increase in cases this week, no severe or critical patients, nor any deaths, have been reported. Therefore, the situation is not considered alarming. The Ministry will continue to accelerate booster vaccination efforts for priority groups and maintain ongoing monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants. 

The currently circulating strains are also present in other countries and are not considered to cause severe illness. The current COVID-19 vaccines remain effective. The Ministry of Health will continue to strengthen and expedite activities related to the surveillance, prevention, control, and treatment of COVID-19.