Cyprus authorities tighten control due to rising flu deaths

The Ministry of Health of Cyprus and the state health service OKYpY have moved to a heightened alert mode amid a sharp increase in fatal cases related to influenza.

According to official information, since the start of the season, 24 people have died on the island with laboratory-confirmed diagnoses of influenza. All patients were receiving treatment in medical facilities.

The first fatal case of this flu season was recorded in December — the victim was a patient from a high-risk group.

The deceased include children: reports mention the death of a four-year-old girl in Nicosia, as well as a 54-year-old man undergoing treatment in a private clinic.

The Ministry of Health notes that this season in Cyprus is dominated by influenza type A, which more frequently leads to severe complications in elderly people and patients with chronic illnesses.

Additional pressure on the healthcare system is caused by the active spread of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially among children and vulnerable patients.

Medical professionals urge residents to pay attention to symptoms, avoid contacts when feeling unwell, and seek medical care promptly.