Children across Cyprus are experiencing a surge in seasonal infections over the past two weeks, with cases of bronchiolitis, coxsackie virus, respiratory illnesses, and ongoing gastroenteritis, medical experts report.
“We are seeing increased cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which causes bronchiolitis, alongside a cocktail of other viruses”, Dr Michalis Anastasiades, president of the Cyprus Paediatric Society, told Phileleftheros.
While influenza cases remain relatively low, which is typical for November in Cyprus, Anastasiades emphasises the importance of vaccination. He urges parents to ensure their children receive both the flu vaccine and all immunisations included in the national vaccination programme.
The Health Ministry is currently working to secure RSV vaccines, though these are primarily intended for adults and pregnant women to protect their unborn children. For infants, the ministry is in the process of obtaining monoclonal antibody treatments, which provide protection through a single dose. Currently, a five-dose treatment is available only for children with serious health conditions.
Anastasiades stressed that children showing symptoms should stay home from school to prevent transmission. “This applies not only to flu but to all viruses currently circulating, which can easily spread from person to person”, he said.
The paediatrician also emphasised the continued importance of personal protective measures and hygiene practices, particularly given RSV’s impact on both very young children and the elderly.
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