Campaign launched to raise awareness on hepatitis and HIV

Campaign launched to raise awareness on hepatitis and HIV

A campaign has been launched to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and HIV in Cyprus, coinciding with ‘World Hepatitis Day’. The Health Minister emphasized the importance of equal access to quality health services for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. Viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide, with deaths increasing to 1.3 million globally in 2022. The World Health Organization aims for comprehensive screening for viral hepatitis by 2030. An initiative called ‘KYFA Checkpoint’ was presented at the press conference, offering free tests for interested individuals.

5 years on, 60% visit GHS specialists

5 years on, 60% visit GHS specialists

– The General Health System (GHS) in Cyprus was established five years ago.
– The GHS remains financially viable for the next seven years, with reserves of €590 million.
– The GHS has increased confidence among the public, with 60% of beneficiaries visiting a specialist in the past year.
– The GHS has improved access to health services and quality of life for citizens.
– Plans are underway to reduce waiting times at specialist physicians and publish a strategic plan for 2024-2026.
– The GHS has added four hospitals, two A&E departments, day care centers, at-home palliative care, and additional healthcare professionals and therapies.
– The GHS has imposed fines, carried out investigations, and suspended contracts to ensure oversight and quality of services provided.

First Cypriot born on EU accession day 2004 joins anniversary celebrations

First Cypriot born on EU accession day 2004 joins anniversary celebrations

Cyprus was honored at a ceremony celebrating 20 years since acceding to the European Union. Kyriacos Yiallourides, the first Cypriot born on May 1, 2004, asked about Cypriots’ expectations during the road to accession. George Iacovou mentioned that Cypriots hoped for security and stability and that the younger generations were excited about opportunities to study, work, and live abroad. The EU is characterized by breaking down borders and former enemies becoming friends. Yiallourides hopes more countries continue to join the EU to promote peace in Europe. EU Parliament president Roberta Metsola discussed the benefits of being part of the EU and embracing differences while ensuring equality of opportunity.

Nicosia: Protest over Anisur’s death – “We are asylum seekers, not criminals”

Nicosia: Protest over Anisur’s death – “We are asylum seekers, not criminals”

Around 300 people marched in Nicosia against racism and police violence, following the death of Anisur Rahman. The protesters demanded an end to police repression, respectful treatment of immigrants, equal access to healthcare, an end to dehumanization of asylum seekers, and a stop to deportations.

Nicosia protest demands end to second-class status for migrants

Nicosia protest demands end to second-class status for migrants

Fact: Hundreds of people took to the streets of Nicosia in a peaceful demonstration for equal rights covering all migrants living in Cyprus.

Cyprus Forum Cities highlights local governance and smart cities

Cyprus Forum Cities highlights local governance and smart cities

House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou warned about forthcoming challenges in local governance during her address at the 2nd Cyprus Forum Cities event. Deputy Minister Nikodemos Damianou outlined the Cyprus government’s plans for smart city development, including the Smart Cyprus initiative. Deputy Minister Irene Piki emphasized the critical role of cities in improving citizens’ quality of life.

Rural areas to receive fibreoptic internet

Rural areas to receive fibreoptic internet

Fact: Rural areas across Cyprus are to receive “ultra-high-speed” fibreoptic internet networks as part of a government project to bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to gigabit connectivity for everyone by 2026.

New report mostly positive on Gesy

New report mostly positive on Gesy

The latest evaluation report on Cyprus’ national health scheme Gesy stated that in the past three years, direct healthcare expenses for patients were reduced from 50 to around 15 per cent.