Parallel with a rise in the number of confirmed patients, there is an increase in the number of samples taken, the Chief Medical Officer said at the Saturday online press conference of the Operational Group responsible for the containment of the coronavirus infection.

Cecília Müller said in the past 24 hours another 18 persons have been diagnosed with coronavirus infection. The number of group incidences is on the rise, these could shortly become mass incidences, and therefore we must do everything we can to slow down the spread of the epidemic, and to “draw out the epidemic curve,” she highlighted.

She added that a respiratory epidemic spreading via droplet infection cannot be checked, but its spread can be slowed down, provided that everyone observes the precautionary measures adopted, stops attending group gatherings and stays at home if possible.

In Hungary in the past 24 hours, the number of registered patients has risen to 103, and four persons have died of the disease. They all suffered from different chronic illnesses as well. At present, six persons are receiving treatment at the intensive care unit, the expert said. She indicated that patients include a person in their forties.

She highlighted that the elderly continue to remain at the centre of attention as protecting them is an especially high priority. Ms. Müller pointed out that everyone can contract the disease as at this point there are incidences from all over the country. However, the immune systems of the elderly and those suffering from other underlying diseases are less able to cope with the virus.

She also said people should resort to all possible means to boost their immune systems; they can exercise at home, and are recommended to eat healthy foods rich in vitamins.

In answer to a question, the Chief Medical Officer said there may be individuals who have already undergone coronavirus infection with mild symptoms as in 80 per cent of cases the progression of the disease involves mild symptoms.

In answer to another question, Ms. Müller highlighted that also in Hungary model calculations are being carried out on an ongoing basis regarding the expected end of the epidemic. However, it is impossible to compare different countries, the spread and progression of the epidemic vary from country to country, and so the available data is not fit for drawing conclusions. At the same time, she asked people not to congregate at various resorts either.

Mr. Müller said in the event of suspected infection all necessary laboratory tests are carried out. Additionally, after a disease control investigation, a contact search is conducted in accordance with medical protocols, and the laboratory tests are also carried in the case of any identified contact persons as well. In this context, she highlighted that in addition to the laboratory of the National Centre for Public Health, laboratory tests of this type are now being carried out in two other places in the country.

Regarding reports that several hospitals banned fathers from attending the births of their children, the expert said health care institutions are free to introduce restrictions.

Tibor Lakatos, head of the Operational Group duty centre said deliveries of raw materials necessary for the production of protective supplies are ongoing. From next week, they are expecting deliveries which are necessary for our containment effort from China.

(Ministry of Human Capacities/MTI)