Gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms in children are associated with viral infection.

According to the ministry, in some cases, the viral infection is manifesting not only with cough, runny nose, or fever, but also in the form of gastrointestinal disorders.

"These illnesses do not always proceed in the same way, which is related to the difference in virus strains," the statement said.

Experts assess that the fact the cold season started a bit late this year — at the end of October — is a normal occurrence.