Greece enters flu season with low activity as vaccinations increase
Greece is approaching the peak of the seasonal flu period with notably low influenza activity, according to new data from the National Public Health Organization (EODY).
Health authorities report that fewer than 5% of primary care visits involve flu-like symptoms—well below the 10% threshold typically used to signal heightened circulation or a potential outbreak.
Vaccination uptake is steadily increasing. As of Tuesday, 965,000 flu vaccines sold over the counter had been administered, alongside 215,000 prescription-based shots. Booster doses remain available by prescription for adults over 65 and for transplant recipients, who are considered higher risk.
Apostolos Valtas, president of the Panhellenic Pharmaceutical Association, told Kathimerini that flu vaccination rates are tracking closely with last year’s pace, adding that a clearer picture of demand will emerge by late November, when seasonal activity normally intensifies.
While flu transmission remains low, Covid-19 continues to circulate at moderate levels. EODY reported 15 Covid-related deaths in the past two weeks, compared with one death attributed to influenza, prompting health officials to reiterate vaccination recommendations for vulnerable groups as winter approaches.
