Cyprus vaccination levels remain high, according to data presented by the Health Ministry during European Immunisation Week, as officials and medical experts underline the importance of continued immunisation coverage and equal access to vaccines.
Speaking at a press conference, Michalis Anastasiades, President of the Cyprus Paediatric Society, raised concerns about under-vaccinated migrant and refugee populations and the potential public health risks.
He referred to rising cases of infectious diseases across Europe, including hundreds of measles cases and tens of thousands of whooping cough cases recorded last year, calling for stronger vaccine access for vulnerable groups.
“Cyprus vaccination efforts must include migrants and refugees who also need protection, especially infants who cannot yet be vaccinated,” he said.
High coverage but ongoing risks
The Health Ministry said vaccination coverage in Cyprus remains high, though it warned that population movement and arrivals from countries with low vaccination rates can increase risks for unvaccinated infants and vulnerable individuals.
Officials stressed the importance of ensuring easy access to vaccines for all populations living in Cyprus, particularly in light of cross-border mobility.
According to data presented, vaccination coverage in Cyprus reached strong levels across several diseases.
Measles coverage stood at 97% in 2024, while pneumococcal vaccination reached 78.56% in 2025. Hepatitis A coverage was recorded at 90.65%, and chickenpox at 90.48%.
Authorities noted that while these figures are encouraging, sustained effort and timely public communication remain essential to maintain protection levels.
Vaccination as social responsibility
Health Minister Neofytos Charalambidis said prevention remains a core public health priority, adding that European Immunisation Week provides an opportunity for dialogue with citizens.
He highlighted decades of progress in eliminating infectious diseases, noting that ongoing evaluation and updates to vaccination schedules are key to maintaining strong vaccination standards in Cyprus.
Deputy Director General of the Health Ministry Elisavet Konstantinou described vaccines as the “cornerstone of health,” stressing that vaccination is not only about statistics but about protecting families, vulnerable individuals and those who cannot be immunised for medical reasons.
She said this year’s message, “For every generation, vaccines work,” reflects vaccination as both a scientific achievement and a matter of social responsibility.
Also read: Cypriots lead EU in online health information use, Eurostat says
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