Influenza A continues to surge in Cyprus, with RSV and adenovirus also spreading, according to Dr. Maria Koliou, pediatric infectious disease specialist and Associate Professor of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the University of Cyprus Medical School.
At Makarios Hospital, doctors report that flu cases remain high, and other seasonal viruses circulate widely. Dr. Koliou noted that this year’s flu wave is particularly intense and has already caused fatalities, mostly among the elderly.
Seasonal trends and risk factors
The current levels of infection align with seasonal expectations, especially during cold weather, which promotes the spread of respiratory viruses. So far, Influenza A dominates, while Influenza B has not appeared in significant numbers. Typically, Influenza B emerges later in the season, around March.
Vaccination is key
Dr. Koliou stressed the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable groups: adults over 60, people with chronic illnesses (heart, lung, kidney, neurological, or hematological conditions), immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and children aged six months to five years.
She highlighted the risk of serious complications from the flu, including necrotizing encephalitis, myositis, and myocarditis. “Not all flu cases are just a common cold. That’s why vaccination and preventive measures are crucial,” she said.
Personal protection measures
Individuals should avoid close contact with sick people, ventilate indoor spaces, and stay home when experiencing fever or severe symptoms. Children should remain home from school until symptoms subside to prevent spreading infections.
RSV concerns
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), once primarily a concern for children, now increasingly affects adults over 65, particularly those with chronic lung conditions. Vaccines for RSV are available for older adults.
For infants, a monoclonal antibody protects babies born during RSV season (October to March). Dr. Koliou confirmed that RSV cases appear at Makarios Hospital, but fortunately, severe cases among very young infants remain limited, thanks to the preventive antibody.
“RSV circulates alongside influenza this season, affecting some children over one year old, but the situation is under control,” she said.
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