Surge in viruses pushes children, ’s hospital to limits
The Makarios hospital for children in Nicosia has a bed occupancy rate exceeding 90% due to an influx of respiratory infection cases, primarily caused by the RSV virus. Over half of the hospitalized children are under 12 months old, and lower respiratory infections are the second most prevalent ailment. The Director of the hospital’s paediatrics department predicts an increase in cases after the reopening of schools. Currently, four children are admitted with COVID-19. Additionally, around 60 elderly patients with COVID-19 are hospitalized in public hospitals, indicating community transmission. The spokesperson for the State Health Services’ Organization mentions that there is an increase in viral and bacterial infections, including RSV, but they are within expected limits. The flu is expected to pick up from mid-January to the end of February.