BAKU, July 22 — In recent days, Azerbaijani pediatricians have reported a sharp uptick in cases of viral infections among children and teenagers. The illness, marked by high fever, vomiting, fatigue, and—in more severe cases—convulsions, has triggered serious concern among both parents and medical professionals.
Pediatrician Shalala Polukhova confirmed in an interview that a significant portion of these patients are testing positive for COVID-19.
“We’re seeing a surge in complaints of vomiting, weakness, and diarrhea accompanied by high fever. Around 50% of these children are testing positive for COVID-19. The rest are diagnosed with gastrointestinal viral infections,” she said.
Polukhova noted that while the symptoms may feel alarming, such outbreaks are common during summer.
“The spike in temperature creates an ideal environment for viral infections to spread, especially gastrointestinal ones. This is something we witness every year. It’s also important to remember that children under 6 can suffer febrile seizures even at fevers as low as 37°C (98.6°F), due to their bodies’ rapid temperature response,” she explained.
Rise in COVID-19 Cases Resembling Flu
According to the pediatrician, many children are now experiencing a version of COVID-19 that mimics classic influenza—often without a runny nose, but with persistent and long-lasting coughs. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Health recently confirmed the ongoing circulation of the Omicron variant within the country.
Polukhova warned parents against self-treatment, especially with antibiotics.
“We’re seeing an increasing number of cases where parents start antibiotics at home without medical advice, stop treatment early, or misdiagnose the condition. This leads to rapid deterioration, potentially causing pneumonia and fluid buildup in the lungs. It’s deeply troubling.”
The Role of Vaccinations and Hygiene
She also emphasized the importance of preventive hygiene and vaccinations—especially the rotavirus vaccine administered at 2 and 4 months of age.
“Vaccinated children are either fully protected or experience milder symptoms. Unvaccinated infants, however, often suffer intense symptoms—up to 20 episodes of vomiting a day, severe diarrhea, and high fever, putting them at high risk of dehydration,” she noted.
Polukhova stressed that children with weakened immune systems or incomplete vaccination schedules are the most vulnerable.
“We urge parents to seek professional medical advice at the first signs of illness. Antibiotics are not over-the-counter cures, and misuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and long-term harm.”
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The growing number of respiratory and gastrointestinal cases, coupled with COVID-19 complications, is prompting renewed calls for public awareness and responsibility. Medical professionals warn that while summer viruses are not new, the added presence of COVID-19 makes this season particularly challenging for pediatric care.
Source: Lent.az
