Nicosia: It is possible for Cyprus to witness a second wave of influenza, Professor of Microbiology/Molecular Virology at the Medical School of the University of Nicosia, Dr. Petros Karayiannis, told the Cyprus News Agency Sunday. That is possible despite the fact that the epidemiological picture remains stable, he said, also noting that figures do not allow for any complacency.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dr. Karayiannis said that infections are being recorded continuously, and there is no serious outbreak that would put intense pressure on the health system. However, he recalled statements by health officials that the health system is facing increased difficulties, mainly due to the need to isolate patients with different infections in separate wards.
Dr. Karayiannis highlighted the uncertainty regarding whether a second wave with a noticeable surge of cases will occur or if the viruses will merge. He mentioned that currently, mainly strains of influenza A are circulating, with the new substrain K prevailing. The increased occurrence of RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) cases in the elderly is also a concern, as this virus typically affects young children and appears earlier in winter.
The professor noted that there is no immunity in the community against the K substrain, being a new strain, while existing immunity mainly relates to previous strains of influenza A. He stressed that this immunity, combined with vaccination, offers significant protection. This year's vaccines include two strains of influenza A and one of influenza B, which, while not completely preventing infection, significantly reduce the severity of the disease and the risk of hospitalization.
Dr. Karayiannis mentioned that there is still time for vaccination, as we are in mid-February and the shot takes about 15 days to develop full immunity. He added that scientists in Europe estimate that the flu may continue into March. Data from the US and the UK suggest that this year's vaccine offers protection of up to 50%, compared to 65%, which is considered the average in other years.
He clarified that no differences in symptoms are expected compared to the first wave, except for young children, who may experience gastrointestinal problems. Complications mainly concern the elderly and vulnerable groups, despite deaths from influenza in Cyprus remaining limited. However, there has been an increase this year, while in countries like Greece, 20 to 25 deaths are recorded per week.
Regarding COVID-19, Dr. Karayiannis noted that it continues to record fluctuations throughout the year, as it is not a seasonal virus. He emphasized that the only way to reliably distinguish influenza from COVID-19 is through laboratory testing, as the symptoms are similar and do not allow for a safe diagnosis without a test.