Newsroom
Seasonal influenza cases are currently circulating in Cyprus at levels similar to last winter, according to health officials, though a gradual increase is expected as the country moves deeper into the peak flu season.
Doctors at Makarios Hospital, the island’s main pediatric referral center, report a noticeable presence of influenza alongside other winter respiratory infections. While several children are being treated for influenza A, hospital officials stress that pediatric wards are operating within capacity and are not under pressure at this stage.
The January–March period is traditionally the busiest time for seasonal viruses in Cyprus, and clinicians say this year is following a familiar pattern. Current flu numbers closely resemble those seen during the same period last year, though doctors caution that short-term fluctuations are likely as transmission continues.
Hospital preparedness remains high. Pediatric and intensive care teams are on standby in case more severe flu cases emerge, and contingency plans are in place to transfer patients to other public hospitals under the State Health Services Organization network if bed availability becomes limited. At present, intensive care occupancy related to respiratory infections is moderate.
Health professionals also note that no recent hospital admissions linked to COVID-19 have been recorded in the pediatric setting, reinforcing that influenza and other seasonal viruses are currently the main concern.
Prevention remains critical as flu spreads
Medical experts continue to urge families to take preventive measures, particularly for young children and other vulnerable groups. Vaccination against influenza remains one of the most effective tools, especially for those at higher risk of complications.
Additional protective steps, such as staying home when sick, avoiding close contact during outbreaks, ventilating indoor spaces, practicing good hand hygiene, and reducing crowding, are strongly recommended to slow transmission.
Recent international research, including a controlled study conducted by the University of Maryland, highlights the importance of ventilation and cough-related exposure in flu spread. Findings suggest that well-ventilated indoor environments significantly reduce the risk of infection, even when infected individuals are present.
While Cyprus is not currently experiencing an unusual surge in influenza cases, health authorities expect flu activity to remain active throughout the winter. Hospitals remain prepared, and public health officials emphasize that responsible behavior, particularly staying home when ill, will be essential in preventing a sharper rise in flu rates in the weeks ahead.
