During today's Operational Group press conference, Chief Medical Officer Cecília Müller reported that the number of people who are fully recovered from the coronavirus is gradually increasing and now stands at nearly 1,300.
Müller said the number of active infections fell below 1,700, and there are currently 614 patients hospitalized with the coronavirus. Of those actively infected, 58 percent are in Budapest and Pest County, but this number is also on a downward trend.
As the epidemic situation improves, the CMO said it will be possible to further expand regular healthcare services. The process of returning to normal healthcare services began on May 4, and occasional screenings will start on May 18.
The CMO said that planned, non-emergency surgeries can be performed via inpatient care starting on Monday, as well as curative care services. Müller said that patients must still make an appointment with doctors by phone. Today, Minister of Human Capacities Miklós Kásler informed all heads of medical institutions as to what healthcare services they can restart.
One-third of the beds reserved for the care of coronavirus patients have been released, but beds in intensive care units need to be maintained, Müller added.
The Chief Medical Officer drew attention to the continued presence of the coronavirus, noting that despite the downward trend, there are still new patients. Epidemiological preparedness must thus continue to be maintained in order to provide adequate care for patients with COVID-19, the CMO said.
For all normal healthcare procedures, if no coronavirus infection is suspected, no laboratory testing is required and doctors can perform the required procedure on the patient, said Müller. She also stated that more than 50 percent of deaths in Hungary are caused by cardiovascular disease, so efforts should be made to restore care for such patients as soon as possible.
Regarding helpline workers, the chief medical officer said that their work in healthcare also deserves recognition and thanked them for their hard work.
A call center set up for advice on the coronavirus can be reached on +36-80-277-455 and +36-80-277-456 or by email koronavirus@bm.gov.hu