The first waves of seasonal viruses have reached Cyprus earlier than expected, with doctors already observing increased activity in clinics and a steady rise in people seeking medical advice.
Although December has only just begun, personal doctors for adults and children are receiving a surge of calls. Flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have already made their presence felt in recent weeks, prompting specialists to note that this season requires heightened attention, especially for vulnerable groups.
A month earlier than usual
“We normally see the first mass cases of flu and seasonal infections after 10–15 December. This year, we started in mid-November,” personal doctor and specialist pathologist Dr Kostas Schizas told Politis. He explains that the current pattern differs from the typical seasonal trend, with RSV already appearing — mainly in children — while the new flu variant known as strain K also requires particular attention as it continues to spread.
Despite the early onset, the peak has not yet been reached. “This usually occurs from late December to mid-January,” Dr Schizas notes, adding that the rise in cases is linked both to weather changes and the festive period, which will bring more gatherings and therefore greater transmission.
Vaccination remains key
Dr Schizas stresses that preventive measures must be taken early. “It is important to act now in order to avoid illness, especially severe illness.” Vulnerable groups — the elderly, chronically ill patients and young children — remain a priority, with vaccination described as “a very strong protective tool”. Many citizens who receive the flu vaccine annually have already been immunised this year, while those who have not can still do so.
And so does limiting contact
Alongside vaccination, personal protection measures first adopted during the pandemic still play a crucial role: proper hand hygiene, mask use where necessary and good ventilation in indoor areas, especially where people gather. “These are measures we all know well and can use to protect ourselves and those around us,” he emphasised.
Dr Schizas also advises people who are ill to avoid social gatherings and remain at home for one to two days to limit transmission, particularly to vulnerable groups. “Those with symptoms should avoid gatherings and limit their contacts,” he said.
No antibiotics for viral infections
He highlights once more the importance of correct antibiotic use. “A patient with flu, Covid-19 or any respiratory infection cannot call asking for antibiotics. Antibiotics do not work in such cases. They will not reduce fever or stop the cough,” he notes, adding that personal doctors must also be cautious when prescribing them.
As winter begins, specialists expect cases to rise further. Early prevention, cooperation with personal doctors and responsible behaviour from those who fall ill appear to be the essential steps to navigating this year’s virus season safely.