The deployment of health care workers is going to plan, the Chief Medical Officer said at the Monday online press conference of the Operational Group responsible for the fight against the coronavirus epidemic.
Cecília Müller added that with a rise in the number of incidences, there is also a rise in the number of patients requiring hospitalisation, and this is why it is necessary to redirect health care workers to institutions where all the conditions necessary for their therapy are available.
She said the Operational Group ordered extraordinary breaks in 21 nursery schools and five elementary schools, while 64 classes and four schools changed over to digital education due to coronavirus infections; this is an improving trend compared with last week.
In answer to a question, she said the vaccine against the flu does not pose a threat even if it is administered during the incubation period of the virus. The three-component flu vaccine does not contain live viruses. The general practitioner decides on whether the vaccine can be administered or not after an examination, she said. The expert recommends the vaccine for everyone, but in particular for those aged over 60 and those suffering from chronic diseases.
Ms. Müller indicated that the vaccine will also be available at occupational physicians should the need arise. She said there is sufficient protective equipment in the hospitals; according to the hospital commanders’ reports, quantities enough for two weeks are available continuously.
In connection with a question, she highlighted that individually made/purchased textile masks which cover up the mouth and the nose, are tightly attached to the face and can be washed at minimum 60 degrees are perfectly suitable for everyday use.
Regarding the fact that, according to a government decision, HUF 14 billion has been regrouped for PCR tests, Ms. Müller said there were never any financial limits on the number of tests that could be carried out. Tests are performed free of charge for everyone where justified, she added.
Regarding the epidemic effects of the UEFA Super Cup held in Budapest, she said “based on the available data, no epicentre can be tied to the event”. Had there been infections in larger numbers among members of the audience, these would have directed attention to the event, Ms. Müller said.
The Chief Medical Officer said the epidemic continues to remain in an ascending phase worldwide and also in Hungary where by Monday the number of active cases had risen by 905. 649 persons are being treated in hospital, including forty requiring assisted ventilation. Therefore, observing the rules of hygiene in a disciplined manner is imperative, she pointed out.