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Flu and COVID-19 are on the rise again in Europe. Cyprus has ordered thousands of vaccines.
The first signs of an increase in respiratory infection activity are emerging in Europe. According to the latest ECDC data, the percentage of positive tests for influenza increased from 2.8% to 5.8% in a week, and for SARS-CoV-2 from 7.7% to 12%.
Cyprus is already preparing for the winter season. The Ministry of Health expects a delivery of 170,000 flu vaccines in October. Batches of 125,000 COVID-19 vaccines are also arriving on the island.
The rest of the article is below
First increase in infections in Europe
Data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) doesn't yet signal the start of a major wave of illness. However, it does show that respiratory viruses are starting to circulate more intensively again, before temperatures drop significantly and Europeans begin spending more time indoors.
Among patients presenting to primary care with flu-like symptoms or acute respiratory infection, the following changes were noted:
- flu: increase from 2.8% to 5.8%,
- SARS-CoV-2: increase from 7.7% to 12%,
- RSV: no change – 0%.
The results refer to the comparison of the 34th and 35th weeks of 2026.
More infections also in hospitals
The increase is also visible in the results of tests of patients admitted to hospitals with severe acute respiratory infections.
In this group, the percentage of positive influenza tests increased from 1% to 2.2%. For SARS-CoV-2, the rate increased from 2.4% to 3.7%, and the detection rate for RSV changed from 0.2% to 0.4%.
The numbers remain relatively low, but the trend is clear. ECDC notes that the majority of infections detected in hospitals occur in people over 65 years of age.
People with weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses are also among the groups at greater risk of developing severe disease.
Cyprus orders flu and COVID-19 vaccines
The Ministry of Health expects 170,000 flu vaccines to arrive in Cyprus in October.
Deliveries of COVID-19 vaccines have also begun. Of the total order, 112,722 adult doses and 11,550 pediatric doses are scheduled to arrive on the island. This brings the total to 124,272 doses.
Details regarding the vaccination rollout, eligible groups, and appointment scheduling are to be provided by the Ministry of Health. The mere provision of vaccines does not guarantee their availability at all vaccination sites.
RSV protection for pregnant women and children
The Ministry of Health also reminded doctors about the RSV protection program. It includes vaccinating pregnant women with Abrysvo and administering the monoclonal antibody nirsewimab, known as Beyfortus, to eligible newborns, infants, and children.
Supplies needed to cover pregnant women and children are already available to doctors.
Nirsewimab is not a traditional vaccine. It's a monoclonal antibody that provides temporary protection against severe RSV infections. A doctor should decide whether a child qualifies for the program and selects the appropriate solution based on current criteria.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Find out how to find an open pharmacy and where current duty lists are published.
This is not a wave of illnesses yet
The latest results are primarily an early warning for European healthcare systems. RSV activity remains at a typical interseasonal level, while the increased detection of influenza and COVID-19 warrants further monitoring.
People in high-risk groups should discuss vaccinations and protection against RSV directly with their healthcare provider. Recommendations may depend on age, health status, pregnancy, and previous vaccination status.
Sources: ECDC, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Cyprus, Philenews.
