The President of the National Center for Epidemics and Communicable Diseases Control, Adel Al-Balbeesi, confirmed that the epidemiological situation in the Kingdom is normal and there is no cause for concern. He stressed that the recent calls to wear masks are purely educational and do not imply any indication of an epidemiological threat.
اضافة اعلان
Al-Balbeesi revealed the results of an analytical study based on Ministry of Health data concerning the spread of viruses for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025.
The study showed differences in the spread of common viruses—influenza, RSV, and COVID-19—during the referenced period. It found that influenza and RSV typically peak around week 50 of each year (the last two weeks of the year) and continue for a few weeks into the following year, while COVID-19 circulates throughout the year at fluctuating but low rates ranging between 2% and 3%.
He stated that COVID-19 infections are individual cases and remain within normal levels, according to data analysis and studies.
He added that “the Center conducted 4,000 PCR tests for COVID-19; 2% of them were positive,” noting that many infected individuals do not seek testing.
The results also showed that 1% of those tested were positive for influenza and 3.5% for RSV, explaining that the symptoms of these infections are similar.
Al-Balbeesi advises against excessive use of antibiotics and urges people to get the flu vaccine
Given the similarity of symptoms, Al-Balbeesi urged against the overuse of antibiotics, addressing his message to emergency physicians, pharmacists, and the public.
He also called for the importance of receiving the flu vaccine at this time—especially for the elderly, children, pregnant women, individuals with weakened immunity, patients with chronic diseases, and healthcare workers.
He added that for these groups, receiving the flu vaccine should be considered “almost mandatory.”
Al-Balbeesi emphasized that the Center’s repeated calls for mask-wearing are intended to promote awareness and strengthen community health, and do not carry any implicit warning of an epidemic risk.
He outlined a set of guidelines for citizens to follow during this period, including wearing masks in enclosed and crowded spaces and for those showing symptoms, as well as washing hands thoroughly, maintaining healthy dietary habits that boost immunity, and engaging in physical activity.
He reiterated the need to avoid excessive use of antibiotics, noting that pain relievers and fever-reducing medications are acceptable.
Regarding the common belief that viral spread is linked to the delay of the rainy season, Al-Balbeesi confirmed that there is no connection. He explained that delayed rainfall conditions may increase viral spread and worsen allergy symptoms.
He pointed out that the beginning of the rainy season will not limit the spread of viruses. According to the analytical study, the peak of viral infections this year is expected around week 50 and will extend into the first few weeks of next year.
(Al-Mamlaka TV)
