Doctor: There's a boom in clinics and emergency rooms. The real Armageddon has begun.
"We're seeing this every day, looking at the number of patients in the hospital emergency department and referrals from family doctors. The period of peak morbidity is beginning," Dr. Frejowska-Reniecka told PAP.
The doctor reminds us that prevention is key during this time . In addition to dressing appropriately and avoiding large temperature fluctuations, she recommends vaccinations against influenza, RSV, and COVID-19.
- These are still diseases that can lead to serious complications and hospitalization - she emphasized.
In 2024, over 41,000 RSV infections were recorded in Poland, almost half of which were children under two years of age.
Meanwhile, in 2025, the number of cases increased sharply – according to data from the National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene (NIZP PZH-PIB), by the end of October, 93,156 cases of infection had already been recorded, which is more than twice as many as in the whole of last year.
The specialist also appealed to people with symptoms of infection not to expose others. "If we have disturbing symptoms, we stay home and do not go to work. Similarly, we should not send children to school so that they do not spread diseases and do not expose older family members, especially grandparents, who may have a severe infection," emphasized Dr. Frejowska-Reniecka.
The doctor pointed out that prolonged symptoms - such as cough or hoarseness persisting after an infection - should be an alarm signal.
"We must be careful to ensure that complications from viral illnesses don't develop into serious problems, such as bacterial superinfection or myocarditis. In such cases, you should see your family doctor or a specialist clinic," she said.
Influenza vaccinations prevent illness in approximately 40-70% of vaccinated individuals, depending on the season and the number of vaccinated individuals. They reduce the risk of illness and prevent the development of serious complications, such as cardiovascular complications. Vaccination should be administered annually, preferably before the start of the influenza season, which in Poland lasts from autumn to spring.
People at high risk of developing flu complications, people who may be a source of infection for people at high risk, and those who are particularly vulnerable due to the nature of their work, such as healthcare workers, should be vaccinated in particular .
Additionally, the doctor recommended wearing protective masks in public places and paying particular attention to hand hygiene and disinfection. She emphasized that a responsible approach and following simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of disease spreading in society.
She added that in addition to vaccinations and avoiding crowds, a healthy diet and outdoor exercise have a positive impact on immunity – if weather conditions allow it.
What are the symptoms of RSV infection? They include:
- runny nose and stuffy nose,
- cough (first dry, then wet),
- sneezing,
- sore throat,
- elevated temperature or fever,
- weakness and loss of appetite,
- rapid breathing or shortness of breath,
- wheezing,
- feeling of tightness in the chest,
- in infants: breathing problems, blue lips, feeding difficulties and lethargy.
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