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).
Speaking to CNA, Dr Papamichael said that there is currently an increase in cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other seasonal infections, clarifying, however, that although there are several cases, the Paediatric Clinic ‘is not overcrowded’.
Referring to patients currently hospitalised, she said that at present 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.
Asked whether the numbers are higher compared to previous years, the Director of the Paediatric Clinic noted that the period from January to March is traditionally characterised by an increase in seasonal infections.
‘We are at similar levels to the same period last year,’ she said, adding, however, 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 stressed that the hospital is on ‘full alert’.
‘There is also readiness on the part of the Intensive Care Units to manage more serious cases, should this be necessary,’ she said.
She pointed out that in the event of a large influx of patients and full occupancy of available beds, there is cooperation with other State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) hospitals in all cities.
According to Dr Papamichael, so far, the beds have not been fully occupied, while in recent days ICU occupancy at Makarios Hospital has been at around two thirds. She expressed confidence that ‘if needed, we will respond’.
Dr Papamichael expressed the belief that most parents follow paediatricians’ guidelines and that vulnerable children have been vaccinated against influenza.
She also 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 stressed that individuals who are ill should remain at home, to limit any further increase in cases.