Filenews 16 January 2026
Seven deaths of hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed influenza have been recorded since the beginning of the current epidemic season, said the Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Elizabeth Constantinou, who stated that on Friday an emergency meeting was held at the Ministry, with the aim of better coordinating actions to deal with the outbreak of seasonal infections.
Asked about this, the Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Health stated that based on the data of the Unit for Epidemiological Surveillance and Control of Infectious Diseases, the seven deaths concern elderly people, who were hospitalized in hospitals of the surveillance network from December until today, with most of them presenting with comorbidities.
As he noted, a total of 98 cases of influenza required hospitalization, of which 85 in state hospitals of OKYPY and 13 in private hospitals.
According to Dr. Konstantinou, of these cases, 39 were confirmed by molecular laboratory diagnosis, while the remaining 59 were confirmed by a rapid antigen test.
Coordination of the actions of the involved bodies
In relation to the increased pressure on hospitals in recent days and the lack of available beds, Dr. Konstantinou told KYPE that a meeting was held today, Friday, at the Ministry of Health under her chairmanship and with the participation of all stakeholders, with the aim of better coordinating actions to deal with the outbreak of seasonal infections.
He noted that during the meeting, issues related to the management of patients in need of hospitalization were discussed, through public-private cooperation.
The meeting was attended by representatives of OKYPY, the HIO and private hospitals.
In response to a relevant question, Dr. Konstantinou said that the health mechanism is "adequately prepared" and that the Ministry of Health has made the necessary preparations, with vaccination as the main pillar.
Call for compliance with protection measures
At the same time, with the increased activity of seasonal flu, Dr. Konstantinou appeals to citizens to observe basic personal protection measures, especially those belonging to vulnerable groups, emphasizing the importance of personal care and prevention.
"Due to the increased activity of seasonal flu, the Ministry of Health reminds the public of the personal protection measures that must be taken," he said, explaining that good hygiene, the use of masks in closed spaces and the avoidance of contact with people who show symptoms are crucial to limit the spread.
According to her, citizens are asked to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or an alcoholic solution, to cover their nose and mouth with an elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing, to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth and to ensure adequate ventilation of closed spaces.
He added that important measures are also the frequent disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, counters and telephones, as well as the use of masks during visits to hospitals or nursing homes.
In addition, in case of symptoms such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, runny nose or sore throat, Dr. Konstantinou recommended self-isolation, use of a mask when in contact with others, rapid detection or PCR tests and immediate communication with the personal doctor for evaluation and possible initiation of antiviral treatment.
The Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Health underlined that "vaccination against influenza, especially for groups at increased risk, remains the most effective prevention measure against severe disease".
