Moldova: COVID Cases Down, But Europe Sees Rise
Since the beginning of July, Moldova's health authorities have reported a total of 201 COVID-19 cases.
Among these cases, 25 were reported in the Transnistrian region, and 40 involved children under 14 years of age.
Moldova's National Agency for Public Health (ANSP) is closely monitoring the pandemic situation. Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 are isolated. Mild cases receive outpatient treatment under the supervision of a family doctor, while severe cases are subject to more intensive monitoring. Epidemiologist Stefan Gheorghiță assured Radio Moldova that the situation remains under control, despite a single reported death.
Residents of the capital's Telecentru district interviewed for this report expressed varying degrees of concern about the pandemic. Some residents believe the pandemic is over and the virus no longer poses a significant threat. However, many residents continue to practise good hygiene habits established during the height of the pandemic.
One resident stated, "I take precautions against coronavirus whenever possible. If the number of cases starts to rise again, I believe it's important to be vigilant."
Another resident expressed a more relaxed attitude, stating, "I don't necessarily protect myself from coronavirus all the time."
A third resident highlighted the importance of hygiene, regardless of the COVID-19 situation: "I wash my hands regularly, but I don't wear a protective mask. Handwashing helps prevent the spread of many diseases, not just COVID-19. I hope people continue to practise good hygiene, and that we can avoid another surge in cases."
Another resident emphasised the importance of vaccination: "I'm vaccinated, and that's the only protection I'm taking."
One resident offered a dissenting view, stating, "Those who wear protective masks in such hot weather are simply being overly cautious."
It is important to note that the number of coronavirus cases in Moldova significantly decreased in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. There were only 4,800 reported cases during this timeframe, representing a fivefold decrease from the 24,000 cases reported in the first half of 2023.
According to a United Nations report, 85,000 COVID-19 cases were reported in European countries between May 27 and June 23. Several European countries are currently experiencing a rise in cases, including Romania, Greece, Cyprus, North Macedonia, Italy, and Malta.
Translation by Iurie Tataru