Filenews 8 July 2021
The aggressive spread of the virus caused by the Delta mutation is causing a significant burden on epidemiological indicators, with efforts by states across the European Union turning to intercepting the spread and preventing the burden of hospital indicators, the Ministry of Health says.
It adds that according to the available scientific data from studies, the Indian strain of the virus mainly affects people who have not been adequately shielded through vaccination, while causing more serious morbidity and increased communicability among the young population, with more intense social activity.
The Ministry also points out that in Cyprus, in the last two weeks there has been a new increase in the number of cases, which affects the positivity rate and the number of reproductions. At the same time, this week there is a daily increase in the number of covid hospitalized patients, making it necessary to take action to protect the Health System.
Typically, the majority of positive cases (over 91%) are people who have not been vaccinated or have not completed their vaccination regimen. The concern is heightened, at the same time, by the fact that the tracing shows the existence of outbreaks of cases in places of increased traffic, such as bars, clubs, dining areas, entertainment venues, etc., but also at social events, such as weddings, concerts and graduation and birthday parties. At the same time, the data from the hospitals raise concerns, since 9 out of 10 people who develop severe symptomatology and are hospitalized have not been vaccinated.
With the decisions taken in its two recent sessions, the Council of Ministers aims to strengthen the effort to increase vaccination coverage so that the desired level of protection in the community can be achieved as soon as possible. At the same time, while respecting the right to safe socialisation of both people who have chosen to be vaccinated and those who have chosen not to do so, the Council of Ministers has taken steps to ensure that social and economic activity continues for all citizens, regardless of their choice.
As regards the implementation of the vaccination programme, 65.6%of the population has received the 1st dose of the vaccine by 6 July, while 53.9% have completed their vaccination regimen. So far, about 49,500 vaccination appointments have been scheduled. The Vaccination Portal remains at the disposal of all citizens aged 16 and over and citizens are encouraged to proceed with the settlement of their vaccination, protecting themselves and their loved ones and contributing to the collective effort to protect Public Health.
