The first patients were registered in Hungary a month ago, and the right measures were adopted at the right time in the fight which serves to contain the coronavirus epidemic, the Chief Medical Officer highlighted at the Saturday online press conference of the Operational Group responsible for the containment of the coronavirus epidemic. Cecília Müller asked people to comply with the implemented restrictive measures even despite the good weather.

She stressed, as far as they can see, both by global and European standards, in Hungary the right measures were adopted at the right time as part of the effort to contain the coronavirus epidemic. It is thanks to this that the country has managed to avoid the exponential spread of the disease. At the same time, she drew attention to the fact that we are on the verge of mass incidences.

She said in social institutions, including elderly care homes, they have tightened the measures implemented, including the introduction of a full ban on admission and a full curfew. She pointed out that it was the responsibility of operators, including local governments, to implement the disease control measures now imposed.

She said in the past twenty-four hours six patients had died, and the number of registered patients had risen to 678 in Hungary. All of the deceased suffered from chronic diseases. One of them was 54 years old, while the others were older, typically aged around 80, she highlighted.

In answer to questions, she said the government office ordered an investigation at the elderly care home where five residents had become infected. They have ordered a room quarantine for residents, have disinfected the building, have taken those displaying symptoms to hospital, and have taken some 200 samples in order to curb the spread of infection.

In answer to further questions, she stressed that in order to enable the health care system to stand its ground even during the phase of mass incidences, they are training further health care specialists and extending the availability test capacity.

At the same time, she drew attention to the fact that many different types of tests are available on the market, some of which could be unreliable.

According to her information, deciding whether a test is necessary continues to remain within the competence of general practitioners who also decide on the care to be provided for patients after notification by telephone. They are helping general practitioners by providing them with detailed information.

If the suspicion of coronavirus infection emerges, the person is tested and samples are taken from those living in his or her immediate environment, she added.

The Chief Medical Officer said “in the interest of preserving mental health” everyone needs to spend time outdoors, and therefore sporting activities, including fishing are not prohibited, provided that everyone observes the rules relating to distancing.

She also said there is no shortage of insulin which is essential for diabetes patients, or of any other drug.

(MTI)