According to Ivane Chkhaidze, Medical Director of the Iashvili Children’s Central Hospital, coronavirus cases increased in July–August.
As Ivane Chkhaidze explained at a press conference held at the media center “Mtavari,” this is a subvariant of Omicron, which is not characterized by a severe course and mainly causes mild respiratory system damage.
“In July–August 2025, the share of coronavirus cases increased relatively. The latest weekly data provided by the National Center for Disease Control indicates that coronavirus is currently the predominant virus. Among patients requiring hospitalization, as well as those needing only outpatient care, coronavirus is the leading cause. The total proportion in both categories is 71%,” Ivane Chkhaidze said.
He further explained that the course of coronavirus is the same as it has been over the past three years and is not associated with complications.
“One of the subvariants of Omicron is spreading, and it is not characterized by worsening of the disease, inflammation development, or the need for hospitalization. It is a typical, standard type of virus that may cause cold-like symptoms. That is why we currently classify this virus as one causing a mild respiratory illness,” Ivane Chkhaidze said.
He also advised that patients with chronic conditions should be especially attentive. According to Chkhaidze, he does not expect an increase in respiratory diseases in September due to the start of school and kindergarten. However, he noted that cases of acute respiratory infections may rise in November.
“November will probably be the period when we may see an increase in acute respiratory infections. In this regard, this year is likely to be no different. We want to remind the population that, as in previous years, flu vaccines will be available in Georgia this year, free of charge. Risk groups include pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, individuals on dialysis, and children under 5 years old, especially those under 2 years of age,” Ivane Chkhaidze said.
He noted that the flu can lead to various complications and urged the population to get vaccinated.
“Children aged 6 months to 5 years are the group we are always concerned about regarding flu complications. The flu is not an ordinary virus. Starting in October, it will likely be the virus responsible for the most severe illnesses. It carries a high risk of complications: pneumonia, heart damage, and brain damage. Therefore, we must be careful,” Chkhaidze said.
Additionally, he addressed the public with recommendations, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene and frequent ventilation of classrooms in schools.
Ivane Chkhaidze: In July–August, coronavirus cases increased relatively – one of the subvariants of Omicron is spreading, and it is not characterized by worsening of the condition
