Cyprus is facing a serious influenza epidemic. Sadly, thirteen people have died from the virus. Health officials are watching closely. They hope the number of new cases is starting to slow down.
Most people who died were older. They also had other health problems. However, a 54-year-old man recently died. This shows the virus can affect younger people too. The Ministry of Health is waiting for final confirmation. They need to officially link all deaths to influenza.
Last week was very bad. Six of the thirteen deaths happened quickly. This was more than the weekend before. The number of deaths is much higher than last year. Hospitals are very busy. They have more work for tests and other checks.
Officials are hopeful. They think the worst part of the epidemic may be over. This is partly because many people got the flu vaccine. Over 145,000 people have had the shot. This is important because the vaccine works well. It helps protect against the virus.
However, other breathing illnesses are also spreading. Not many people have taken the COVID-19 vaccine. Health officials say some people are worried about it. It is important to stay careful and follow health advice.
For now, hospitals will not have more strict rules. This is because the number of cases might be falling. But there could be more cases later in February or March. The recent deaths remind us that flu is still a threat. Getting vaccinated is the best protection.