Regional hospitals under strain: Single pediatrician manages surge of 40 children in Soroca
Moldovan health authorities have reported a sharp rise in respiratory infections, with 1,500 new cases recorded in a single week. The surge has primarily affected children, leaving regional pediatric wards struggling to accommodate the influx of patients.
In the Soroca District, the local hospital is currently treating 37 children, ranging from toddlers to ten-year-olds. Medical staff report that nearly half of these patients are suffering from severe complications, including pneumonia and bronchopneumonia.
Healthcare systems at the limit
The crisis has highlighted significant staffing shortages in rural healthcare. Nina Spoială, Director of the Soroca District Hospital, noted that the facility receives over 20 emergency pediatric visits daily.
"We are forced to prioritize hospitalizing only those with severe complications," Spoială stated. The facility currently operates with only one pediatrician on staff, making it difficult to manage the increasing volume of patients while others are redirected to family doctors.
Family impact and clinical symptoms
Parents describe a rapid onset of symptoms, often starting with persistent coughing and high fevers that cannot be managed at home. In many cases, multiple children from the same family are being admitted simultaneously for intensive treatment and X-ray monitoring.
Health officials emphasize that while this seasonal spike is expected, the public should adhere to basic preventive measures. Avoiding crowded spaces, maintaining hand hygiene, and ensuring proper nutrition remain the primary defenses against further spread.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
