Increased cases of seasonal infections are recorded at the Paediatric Clinic of Makarios Hospital, while a further increase in the coming days due to seasonality is not excluded, said the director of the Clinic, Elena Papamichael.
Dr. Papamichael stated 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 the cases that are being treated, she said that one child with RSV is currently being treated, while four more children are recovering from influenza A and other comorbidity problems.
Besides, he noted that in recent days no coronavirus case has been hospitalized.
Asked whether the numbers are increased compared to previous years, the Director of the Paediatric Clinic noted that the period January – March is traditionally characterized by an increase in seasonal infections.
"We are moving at similar levels to last year," he said, noting, however, that "we may expect an increase in the coming days, which will be seen in practice."
Regarding Makarios' readiness to respond to a possible further increase in cases, Dr. Papamichael stressed that the hospital is on "full alert".
"There is also readiness from the Intensive Care Units, to manage more serious cases, if necessary," he said.
He pointed out that in case of a large influx and coverage of the available beds, there is cooperation with the other hospitals of OKYPY in all cities.
According to Dr. Papamichael, so far the beds have not been fully filled, while recently the occupancy of the ICU in Makarios amounted to about two thirds, expressing the assessment that "if necessary, we will respond".
Finally, she addressed recommendations to parents, although she believes that most of them follow the instructions of paediatricians and that vulnerable children have been vaccinated for the flu.
He underlined the importance of avoiding visits and crowding when there are infections in the environment, good ventilation of the premises, personal hygiene and frequent hand washing, stressing that people who are sick should stay at home, in order to limit the further increase in cases.
CNA
