Parents eager to vaccinate their children can't get an appointment

by Andreas Kokkinos

The announcement for the start of vaccinations in children aged 5 to 11 years old is said to have resulted in a domino effect of problems.  According to reports, the demand is said to be higher than expected in some provinces and some facilities are not equipped to handle the huge number of calls for bookings.

A spokesperson who spoke to Kathimerini confirmed that the demand for an appointment is very high, especially at the Latsia Health Center, where phones are constantly ringing.  On the off-chance that the phone is answered, the caller is put on hold.   The spokesperson added that a great effort is being made to serve as many people as possible and that hundreds of appointments have already been arranged.

Appointments are no longer available for children's vaccinations at the Latsia Health Center for the month of December.  Those looking to book a slot at this center will be waitlisted from January onwards.  Unfortunately, vaccination appointments at this Health Center are only done twice weekly (Monday & Tuesday).

Kathimerini also contacted the communication representative of the Ministry of Health, Konstantinos Athanassiou, who stated that he was aware of the situation and that at this stage only 45 children's vaccinations can be performed daily in Nicosia.  Efforts are being made to increase this number.

The public is reminded that consent forms will need to be submitted to the Ministry of Health before a minor can be vaccinated.