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Cyprus is seeing a noticeable jump in COVID-19 cases, and a new variant called Stratus may be partly to blame, according to molecular biologist Dr. Petros Karagiannis, who spoke to 24newscy about the uptick.
After several quiet months, Karagiannis says the virus is making a comeback, not because it suddenly became more dangerous, but because our immunity has faded.
“Many people haven’t refreshed the immunity they got from past infections or vaccinations,” he explained. “Over time, antibodies weaken and disappear. That leaves a gap in the population, so when people do get infected now, symptoms hit harder.”
A three-virus cocktail in the air
COVID isn’t the only bug circulating. Cyprus is dealing with what Karagiannis calls a viral cocktail, coronavirus, seasonal flu, and RSV, all rising at the same time.
“It’s not just COVID in the community,” he said. “Flu is spreading, RSV is spreading, and both can cause serious symptoms, especially in children and the elderly.”
He also warned about a new strain of flu, known as strain K, which the public has little to no immunity against. Because it’s newly emerged, scientists are still hoping the seasonal flu vaccine will offer protection or at least soften the symptoms.
Health officials continue to recommend flu shots for people over 65, young children, pregnant women, and anyone in a vulnerable group.
Holiday gatherings may fuel infections
With Christmas approaching, Karagiannis says now is the time for extra caution.
“The public should use the self-protection habits we learned during COVID, test yourself, stay home if you’re sick, and try not to infect others,” he said. “With all the festive meals and gatherings, we have to hope we don’t see a major outbreak of all three viruses.”
What about symptoms?
The signs of the Stratus variant aren’t drastically different, but doctors are noticing that throat symptoms are more intense.
“People are reporting a very sore throat, runny nose, fever, and headaches,” Karagiannis said.
With more gatherings on the horizon, he warned that infections could continue rising. “People should be careful, we may see another bump during the holidays.”
