Nicosia, Cyprus. State health services Okypy urged patients not to visit A&E departments for flu symptoms, saying the units must be reserved for life-threatening emergencies.
Okypy guidance on flu symptoms
Okypy said patients should stop attending A&E departments with flu symptoms and stressed the units are exclusively for emergencies. It said flu tests are available in pharmacies and advised people who feel unwell to seek medical advice from a general practitioner.
Ministry reports downward trend in winter respiratory infections
The health ministry said on Wednesday that the number of patients with influenza, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was on a downward trend. Deputy permanent secretary Elisavet Constantinou said 32 people had died from the three diseases during the current winter season, with the annual peak reached immediately after the Christmas holidays.
Constantinou said hospitalisations had declined in recent days and were somewhat lower compared to the previous week. She added that infections may rise again at the beginning of next month and suggested that vulnerable groups and the elderly get vaccinated if they have not already. She said the spring wave of flu and Covid-19 cases is usually milder than the first.
Hospital situation described as manageable
During a visit to Nicosia general hospital last week, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides said the situation at hospitals across the island was manageable as winter drew to a close.
Will you avoid A&E for flu symptoms and seek advice from a general practitioner instead?
