COVID-19 cases in Moldova surge fivefold in August
Authorities report that the number of COVID-19 cases in Moldova has increased fivefold in August from July. In the past week, the country recorded 30 more cases than the previous week. The World Health Organization (WHO) also reports that the number of cases in Europe has doubled in recent weeks.
According to Ștefan Gheorghiță, an epidemiologist at the National Public Health Agency of Moldova, the increase in cases is due to increased travel in the country. In mid-August, there were over 150 cases, and by early September, the number had risen to over 200.
“The increase in COVID-19 infections in recent weeks is due to increased domestic and international travel. Many of our compatriots have returned to Moldova for holidays and vacation. In August, we had 522 cases, while in July, we had 95,” Gheorghiță said.
The WHO also reports that the number of COVID-19 cases in Europe is increasing day by day. In the period from August 14 to 20, there were 14,395 cases in the European Union. Last week, the number was about 11,000 higher. For example, in Romania, the number of cases increased from 1,733 in mid-August to 3,109 by the end of the month.
The National Public Health Agency of Moldova is urging citizens to maintain social distance, eat a healthy diet, wash their hands regularly with soap and water, and use disinfectant in public transportation. Epidemiologists warn citizens to avoid self-medication and to see a doctor if they experience symptoms of a viral infection.
In 2022, Moldova recorded 220,756 cases of COVID-19, of which 1,660 were fatal. In the first eight months of 2023, the country has recorded 24,549 cases, of which 191 have been fatal.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
