Respiratory infections in children/ Cases of visits and hospitalizations at Korça Pediatrics are increasing

2025-03-12 16:09:00, Aktualitet CNA

Respiratory infections in children/ Cases of visits and hospitalizations at

Pediatrician Banuela Rapos has reported a significant increase in respiratory infections in children, with the number of visits reaching up to 80 children per day. The most affected are children aged 5-7, and the main symptoms include high fever up to 40°C, cough and earache. Currently, 17 children are hospitalized with complications such as bronchopneumonia and pneumonia, which require specialized treatment.

"Currently, there are 75-80 visits per day in total. Generally, they are lower respiratory infections, but there are also different ones."

The most affected ages vary, but the ages of 5-7 years have prevailed. These symptoms predominate, high fever that can go up to 40, cough and earache. Currently, we have 17 children hospitalized who show that they also have complications such as bronchopneumonia, pneumonia, therefore these definitely require hospitalization, "said the doctor.

According to the doctor, these viruses last at least 5 days and parents usually consult a doctor after 3 days of high fever. If the child's condition does not improve or the fever persists for a week, hospitalization is recommended.

"The minimum that these viruses can last is 5 days, but they can go even longer. Parents bring them on the third day, some bring them on the first day, but mostly on the third. If they simply need outpatient treatment, we recommend treatment at home, if there is something wrong, we tell them to go to the hospital and usually the parents do not refuse. If the temperature is seen to have lasted 1 week, they should be hospitalized and admitted to the hospital," said Rapo.

She emphasizes the importance of home treatment for milder cases, using antipyretics to reduce fever, maintaining hygiene, avoiding multiple contacts and hydrating with as much fluids as possible. Kindergartens and schools remain the main source of the spread of viruses. Currently, in addition to respiratory infections, there is also an increase in cases of laryngitis, allergies and asthma.

"Parents should treat fever at home with antipyretics, combining them in both cases, hygiene should be maintained, as little contact as possible, hydration with as many fluids as possible. The main source of spread is schools and kindergartens. We are currently in the period where laryngitis reaches its peak, and during this period there are also allergies or asthma," said the doctor.

Parents are the ones who need to be alert to symptoms and seek medical help in a timely manner to avoid complications. Increased care and preventive measures are essential to protect children's health during this viral period. /CNA