Weekly Decline in Acute Respiratory Infections in Ukraine Marks 5.7% Drop Compared to Last Year

Acute Respiratory Infection Rates Drop Across Ukraine

According to Міністерство Здоров'я: Between November 2 and 8, 2026, Ukraine experienced a 1.6% decrease in cases of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) compared to the previous week. Furthermore, the incidence rate for the first week of November this year is 5.7% lower than the same period in 2025. According to the Ministry of Health, from the start of the epidemic season on September 28 through November 8, a total of 613,335 individuals contracted ARVI, representing a 12.8% reduction from last year’s figures.

During the reported week, 97,520 people were diagnosed with ARVI, including:

• 40,103 adults
• 56,169 children

Hospital admissions due to ARVI totaled 2,054 patients, with children accounting for 1,256 of these cases. Across all regions, infection rates remain within expected baseline levels.

Current Status of COVID-19 and Influenza

In the same week, 110 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed, marking an increase of 18 cases compared to the previous week. Since the epidemic season began, four laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza type A have been reported, including one new case last week in Rivne region, with the other three cases previously identified in Kharkiv, Lviv, and Rivne regions.

The viruses currently circulating in Ukraine include:

• Influenza type A
• SARS-CoV-2
• Other coronaviruses
• Parainfluenza viruses
• Adenoviruses
• Respiratory syncytial viruses
• Rhinoviruses

Health professionals emphasize the importance of preventive measures during this season. Parents are advised to encourage children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and maintain a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular outdoor activity. Additionally, regular ventilation of indoor spaces and avoiding large gatherings during periods of increased viral activity are critical steps to reduce infection risks.

The downward trend in ARVI cases reflects encouraging developments in Ukraine’s epidemic situation. However, the ongoing presence of COVID-19 and influenza type A cases highlights the need to sustain preventive efforts.

Source: Ministry of Health of Ukraine

Given the typical rise in respiratory illnesses during autumn and winter months, it is essential for the public to stay informed about health risks and adhere to medical guidelines to help limit the spread of viral infections.