Cyprus is currently experiencing a significant surge in seasonal influenza, which has unfortunately resulted in seven fatalities among hospitalised patients. This alarming rise in infections has placed considerable pressure on the island's healthcare infrastructure. Consequently, a noticeable shortage of available hospital beds has emerged, necessitating an urgent coordination meeting at the Ministry of Health. The current situation powerfully highlights the enduring vulnerability of elderly individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions to severe influenza complications.
In response to this escalating health crisis, Dr. Elisavet Konstantinou, the Deputy General Director of the Health Ministry, convened an emergency session last Friday. This crucial meeting brought together key stakeholders from various organisations, including the State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) and the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO), alongside private hospital administrators. The primary objective of this gathering was to formulate a comprehensive strategy for managing the influx of patients and optimising resource allocation across both public and private healthcare sectors. Discussions focused on enhancing inter-sectoral cooperation to ensure prompt medical attention for all patients requiring care, especially considering the strained bed capacity.
Since the beginning of the current epidemic period, a total of 98 individuals have required hospitalisation due to influenza. Of these, 85 were admitted to state-run facilities managed by the SHSO, while 13 sought treatment in private hospitals. Laboratory confirmations have been instrumental in identifying the full extent of the outbreak, with 39 cases definitively diagnosed through molecular testing and an additional 59 identified via rapid antigen tests. The seven individuals who unfortunately succumbed to the virus were all elderly, and it was noted that a majority had underlying health issues, a common characteristic that often exacerbates the severity of flu infections.
Dr. Konstantinou reassured the public about the Ministry's preparedness, stating that the health mechanism is "adequately prepared" and necessary preparations have been made, with vaccination serving as the main pillar of their strategy. This strong emphasis on immunisation underscores the government's primary approach to mitigating future outbreaks and protecting the most vulnerable segments of the population. Furthermore, the public has been strongly advised to strictly adhere to fundamental personal protection measures to effectively curb the transmission of the virus.
The Ministry's guidance includes stringent hygiene practices, such as frequent and thorough handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes effectively, and refraining from touching the face. Maintaining adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces is also recommended, alongside the regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces. In situations where individuals might be at higher risk of exposure or transmission, such as visiting hospitals or nursing homes, the use of face masks is strongly advised. Dr. Konstantinou further underscored the importance of these preventative steps, remarking that due to increased seasonal flu activity, the Health Ministry reminds the public about individual protection measures that should be taken. The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by seasonal influenza, particularly to vulnerable populations.