A pronounced spike in pediatric flu and viral infections has emerged in recent days, drawing attention from health authorities. Fresh data shared by POEDHN president Michalis Giannakos shows a heavy influx of young patients seeking care during the holiday period due to flu RSV and other seasonal respiratory viruses. Conditions at Aglaia Kyriakou Hospital illustrate the situation clearly as 500 children arrived during its duty shift for examination.
Among those examined 120 were found to have flu RSV or related respiratory infections. Hospital clinicians note that between 10 and 15 percent of infected children ultimately require admission which reflects the significant pressure on pediatric units. Current records indicate that the hospital is caring for 7 children with flu and 10 with RSV.
Long waits at emergency departments are becoming common with families facing delays of 3 to 4 hours before being seen. This situation has intensified concerns about broader weaknesses in primary care. According to Giannakos major staffing shortages at health centers and rapid referrals by private doctors are increasing hospital footfall beyond manageable levels.
Protective steps remain vital he stresses with masks vaccination when recommended and avoidance of crowded spaces considered key actions. Public health experts warn that the peak of seasonal infections has not yet arrived urging continued vigilance.
