Hungary is still in the ascending phase of the epidemic, the Chief Medical Officer stated at the Sunday online press conference of the Operational Group responsible for the containment of the coronavirus epidemic.

Cecília Müller said those who are infected with the virus have no reason to despair as the finding continues to remain true that 80 per cent of those infected undergo the disease with very mild symptoms.

Elderly care homes are continuously preparing for the containment of the epidemic, she said, adding that health care institutions where coronavirus patients are being treated should also be at the centre of attention.

In the context of the elderly care home at Pesti út in Budapest, Ms. Müller said residents are currently undergoing a second round of tests which means that on Sunday samples will be taken from residents; the results of the laboratory tests are expected to be ready by Monday.

She said the group of high-risk persons has not changed: primarily the elderly and those suffering from chronic diseases are most at risk from the virus.

Regarding national data, she said according to Sunday data, the number of confirmed patients has risen to 1,916. Two hundred and fifty persons, many of whom also suffer from chronic diseases, have recovered. At present, 748 persons are being treated in hospital, including 61 patients requiring assisted ventilation. In the context of the latter, the expert said assisted ventilation does not mean that there is no hope; several patients have already been successfully taken off mechanical ventilation.

In answer to a question, Ms. Müller said approximately 40 per cent of persons infected with the coronavirus need hospitalisation; this corresponds to the data of other countries. The condition of those treated in hospital varies significantly; there are some who are being treated with milder symptoms, while others are receiving intensive care, but do not require assisted ventilation.

Regarding housing estates for pensioners, she said these homes are not registered for public health purposes as they are private housing properties, falling within the private sector where the elderly receive care in their own homes.

In answer to a question concerning the upcoming final examinations, Ms. Müller said wherever possible, students should walk to the venue of the final examinations. If this is not possible, students should wear face masks when taking public transport. If they travel in a car carrying multiple passengers, they should likewise wear face masks, and upon arriving, should wash their hands and disinfect their belongings.

In connection with the approaching pollen season, the Chief Medical Officer recommends that those with allergies should stay at home, as by doing so their immune systems will be better-equipped to protect them against allergic reactions. They should start taking their usual medicines and treatment in good time, thereby keeping this chronic condition in a state of balance, she added. She advised persons with allergies to wash their hair and bedding more frequently during this season because pollen grains become stuck in these more easily and in larger numbers.

Regarding outdoor sporting activities, Ms. Müller highlighted that individual sports such as running, cycling and walking are preferable at this time. Everyone should look for places where there are few people around, thereby reducing the chance of infection.

In answer to a question, the expert said ice cream parlours are required to observe the same rules of hygiene as before; however, the serving of ice cream and the handling of money must be separated. Cones must be held with serviettes wrapped around them, while ice cream scoops must be frequently washed in fresh water. It is important that money should not be handled by the same person who serves ice cream, and the more frequent washing of hands is equally important.

(Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister/MTI)