Τhere was an increase in the visits to Accident and Emergency Departments (A&E) of state hospitals during New Year’s holidays due to an increase in seasonal infections, State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) Spokesperson Charalambos Charilaou told the Cyprus News Agency on Friday.

He said that low temperatures that lead citizens to stay indoors as well as festive gatherings contribute to the increase of infections and once again urged people to be vigilant and take personal hygiene measures in order to protect themselves and the vulnerable groups.

Charilaou assured that public hospitals are prepared to deal with the influx of visits which is also due to the fact that GPs and specialist doctors were on leave these days.

OKYPY Spokesperson said that new fast-track clinics are operational and manage all non-urgent cases, adding that citizens are assisted there without long waiting times.

Asked about the increase in seasonal viruses cases and especially influenza A, Charilaou said that some cases are being treated in state hospitals. He said that admissions are on a daily basis and those admitted are mainly patients with comorbidities and elderly people with a vulnerable immune system.

He pointed out that it was expected that there would be a further increase in cases these days and advised people who have symptoms to avoid gatherings and stay home. Charilaou also reminded citizens of simple measures such as to air closed spaces in case of gatherings.

Source: Parikiaki.com