Epidemic (human)

Three patients died from influenza yesterday, as pharmacies report surging demand for antipyretic medication and testing kits amid a widespread outbreak of seasonal infections.
The deceased, aged 43, 73, and 87, were being treated at hospitals in Nicosia and Paphos.
Several other patients are currently receiving intensive care treatment for severe seasonal infections, with dozens more in general hospital wards.
Health authorities report that Influenza A and B strains and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the predominant infections, while Covid-19 continues to hospitalise dozens daily despite showing no significant surge.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warned earlier this week about an expected increase in flu and RSV cases in the coming weeks. The World Health Organisation is monitoring the situation.
Dr Panagiotis Demosthenous, a general practitioner, told philenews that Type A influenza cases are gradually increasing. He advised that patients should self-isolate when showing initial symptoms and seek medical advice if fever persists for more than three days.
Ploutarchos Georgiades, president of the Pancyprian Pharmaceutical Association, told philenews that there are increased visits to pharmacies for rapid tests and fever medication.
He confirmed that antiviral flu medication returned to private pharmacies yesterday after a 12-day shortage, but emphasised these are only available with prescription.
Charalambos Charilou, spokesperson for the State Health Services Organisation, confirmed that intensive care units across Cyprus are treating five patients with severe infections.
He reported that pathology and pulmonology wards are operating at full capacity, with approximately 30-35 Covid-19 patients currently hospitalised across state facilities.