Over the past week, Ukraine reported 3,540 new COVID-19 cases, which is three times higher than the previous week. However, these figures are significantly lower compared to last year when weekly cases reached up to 15,000.

This information was shared by Oleksiy Danilenko, Deputy Director General of the Public Health Center, during a broadcast, as reported by Ukrinform.

"In the last week, we registered 3,540 COVID-19 cases. While this is three times more than last week, compared to last year, we registered over 10,000 and even up to 15,000 cases weekly. This year, the numbers are significantly lower," Danilenko noted.

He pointed out that the main causes of infection include decreased immunity, migration and travel, non-compliance with safety measures, and the emergence of new virus variants.

"We have detected new virus strains in Ukraine - Stratus and Nimbus, with two cases already confirmed," he added.

Danilenko emphasized that new strains have a higher ability to spread, but do not cause more severe illness.

"Complications may occur, especially among at-risk groups, but overall, new strains do not lead to more severe illness. Most cases exhibit symptoms related to the upper respiratory tract, similar to classic COVID-19, with possible symptoms such as hoarseness and sore throat," he stated.

He also noted that these new strains spread more easily among children and young people, often presenting as mild or asymptomatic forms, contributing to quicker transmission.

Danilenko urged adherence to guidelines when symptoms appear.

"If you experience the first symptoms, do not go to work. Stay home, avoid putting others at risk, and seek medical help without self-medicating. We also recommend using personal protective equipment in crowded places, especially when individuals exhibit symptoms. Basic hygiene measures like hand sanitization, surface disinfection, and vaccination are essential," he explained.