Nicosia: An increase in cases of seasonal infections is being recorded at the Paediatric Clinic of Makarios Hospital, while a further rise in the coming days cannot be ruled out due to seasonality, the Clinic's Director, Dr. Elena Papamichael, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dr. Papamichael reported a current increase in cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other seasonal infections. She clarified that although there are several cases, the Paediatric Clinic is not overcrowded.
Referring to patients currently hospitalised, she mentioned that one child is being treated for RSV, while four more children are recovering from influenza A and other conditions. She added that no coronavirus cases have been hospitalised in recent days.
When asked whether the numbers are higher compared to previous years, the Director of the Paediatric Clinic noted that the period from January to March traditionally sees an increase in seasonal infections. "We are at similar levels to the same period last year," she said, adding that "we may possibly see an increase in the coming days."
Regarding Makarios Hospital's readiness to respond to a potential further increase in cases, Dr. Papamichael emphasized that the hospital is on "full alert." She assured that the Intensive Care Units are prepared to manage more serious cases if necessary.
She highlighted the cooperation with other State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) hospitals across all cities, should there be a large influx of patients and full occupancy of available beds. According to Dr. Papamichael, ICU occupancy at Makarios Hospital has recently been around two-thirds, and she expressed confidence that "if needed, we will respond."
Dr. Papamichael expressed her belief that most parents follow paediatricians' guidelines and that vulnerable children have been vaccinated against influenza. She stressed the importance of avoiding visits and close contact when infections are present in the surrounding environment, ensuring good ventilation of indoor spaces, maintaining personal hygiene, and frequent hand washing. She emphasized that individuals who are ill should remain at home to limit any further increase in cases.