Newsroom
Seasonal infections are picking up across Cyprus, with flu cases, the RSV virus, and COVID-19 leading the charge. The situation is causing a significant increase in hospital visits, particularly to Accident and Emergency Departments. According to Charalambos Charilaou, Press Secretary for OKYpY, the situation is manageable for now, though the coming weeks may bring additional challenges.
In the capital, Nicosia, the General Hospital is seeing over 200 visits to the emergency department daily, with similar numbers reported in Larnaca at around 170. In Limassol and Paphos, hospitals are receiving between 130 to 140 visits daily. Charilaou clarified that not all visits are related to respiratory infections, but it’s clear that many people are dealing with flu-related issues.
In a more worrying development, four people—ranging in age from 43 to 86—are currently in intensive care at Nicosia General Hospital. These patients, all suffering from Influenza A, are in critical condition and are being intubated.
The worst may still be to come. With schools opening soon, Charilaou warned that the situation could worsen. Flu cases are just beginning to rise, and health experts expect the peak to hit by the end of January. As more people head back to school and work, there’s concern that these seasonal infections could spread more rapidly, leading to a larger surge.
While hospitals are coping with the increased numbers for now, Charilaou emphasized that delays in treatment have not impacted the quality of healthcare services. However, as we head into the new year, the coming weeks are expected to bring more pressure on the system.
Cypriots are urged to stay alert and take precautions, especially with schools reopening soon. The next few weeks could be crucial in managing this wave of infections.
