Seven people have died from flu this winter as the virus sweeps across Cyprus, forcing the health system onto a crisis footing ahead of an expected weekend surge.
Thousands of citizens are suffering from intense, persistent cough and high fever, whilst dozens—mainly elderly and chronic patients—have been hospitalised.
The Health Ministry has pulled in the private sector to relieve overwhelmed public hospitals. General Health System on-call clinics have extended hours by two hours across all cities, whilst accident and emergency departments are on standby for the weekend rush.
SHSO spokesman Charalambos Charilalou said A&E units are always under greater pressure during weekends and holidays. The situation will be handled through public-private cooperation, he said.
Deputy Director General Elisavet Constantinou said the ministry meeting aimed to better coordinate the response to the seasonal infection outbreak, focusing on how to manage patients needing hospitalisation.
Flu and winter viruses are spreading rapidly through person-to-person contact, putting vulnerable groups at particular risk. Experts are warning elderly people, immunocompromised individuals and chronic patients to take extra precautions.
Health authorities are urging the public to wash hands frequently, use antiseptics, ventilate indoor spaces, stay away from others when symptomatic, and wear masks in hospitals and care homes.
Anyone whose cough, breathing difficulties or fever fails to improve should contact their personal doctor. At weekends, citizens can contact GHS on-call clinics or visit A&E for serious symptoms.