Given the growing incidence of COVID-19 in Ukraine, it is important to continue an active campaign to vaccinate the population, as vaccinated citizens have a milder course of the disease. This was emphasized by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a conference call on combating the spread of coronavirus.
According to Health Minister Viktor Lyashko, 37.3 thousand new cases of COVID-19 were registered in Ukraine last week.
As the number of patients increases, so does the burden on primary care physicians. Currently, more than 24,000 beds for patients with coronavirus are occupied, which is 34.7% of the total number of allocated beds.
At the same time, compared to the previous wave of COVID-19, the level of oxygen consumption in health facilities is lower, i.e. fewer patients are in critical condition. Mortality from coronavirus disease is also lower than in the previous wave.
"The pressure is felt, but the medical system withstands it," said Viktor Lyashko.
In this context, the President reiterated the importance of vaccination against COVID-19.
"In all communications at all levels of the Ministry of Health, we must remind citizens that it is vaccination that facilitates a milder course of the disease," said the President.
In total, 30.3 million vaccinations against coronavirus have already been made in Ukraine. 15.3 million people were vaccinated, of which 14.6 million received two doses.
The Cabinet of Ministers also said that 7.8 million Ukrainians have already applied for cash benefits under the eSupport program initiated by the President. UAH 7.3 billion was transferred to accounts, of which almost UAH 2 billion was spent.
Also, from January 24, citizens over the age of 60 will be able to purchase medicines within the program. UAH 69 million was spent on medicines, which is 3.4% of the total amount.
In general, the book industry remains the leader in terms of funds spent. Ukrainians spent 34.4% of the funds received on the purchase of literature.
It was noted that in the near future the government will decide to expand the eSupport program to people aged 14-18.