Paraguay’s health authorities confirmed the success of the new night shift service, providing medical consultations to over 526,700 patients, effectively reducing morning demand. Reports indicate a decline in Covid-19 cases and flu consultations, although hospitalizations for respiratory infections, particularly among the elderly and children, remain a concern.
Paraguayan health authorities announced that the newly introduced night shift service has attended to over 526,700 patient consultations, easing the morning demands for medical care. Health officials noted that while a decline in Covid-19 cases is observed, one death was reported during this period.
The night service, available from 4 PM to 10 PM, covers various specialties including pediatrics, gynecology, cardiology, clinical medicine, and surgery. This initiative allows individuals to seek immediate assistance or regular check-ups without disrupting their daily routines, thus alleviating pressure on emergency departments.
The Health Ministry encourages citizens to utilize this new consultation option at various hospitals across the country. Concurrently, the need for medical care due to flu and Covid-19 has shown a noticeable decline, yet respiratory infections continue to affect particularly vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
By the end of epidemiological week 05, the recorded flu consultations were at 11,328, marking a 14% decrease from the previous week. This figure reflects a stabilization of cases, with 918 patients hospitalized for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), of which 144 were admitted last week, predominantly among adults, although pediatric cases were also significant.
Currently circulating respiratory viruses include Rhinovirus, SARS-CoV-2, and Influenza, with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Parainfluenza, and Adenovirus also present among hospitalized patients. In the case of Covid-19, 74 new cases were confirmed by the close of SE 05, indicating a 50% reduction compared to the previous week, with a majority of cases occurring in the Metropolitan area.
During the reporting period, 1,122 samples for SARS-CoV-2 were processed, yielding a 6.6% positivity rate. There were 13 hospitalizations for Covid-19 noted, one of which required intensive care, with many of these patients being either under the age of 5 or over 60 years old.
The implementation of a night shift service in Paraguay has significantly alleviated the demand for medical consultations. The decline in Covid-19 cases alongside reduced flu consultations indicates a positive trend in public health, even as respiratory infections persist, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. The ongoing efforts of health authorities are crucial in managing healthcare delivery effectively.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
