NHS ready for peak of flu season, Deputy Health Minister says
The National Health System (NHS) is fully prepared for an expected rise in influenza cases, which are forecast to peak in late January and early February, Deputy Health Minister Marios Themistokleous said on Friday.
Speaking to Naftemporiki TV, Themistokleous sought to reassure the public, saying there was “no reason for people to be frightened,” while stressing the importance of vaccination, particularly for vulnerable groups.
He said that 2.6 million citizens have already been vaccinated against influenza and noted that vaccines remain available for those who wish to receive them.
Referring to staffing issues within the NHS, Themistokleous highlighted nurses’ longstanding demand to be included in the list of hazardous and heavy professions, adding that the ministry aims to address the issue in the coming months.
He also said that the NHS currently employs more staff than ever before, citing a 10% increase in doctors, a 7% rise in nurses and a 7–8% increase in other healthcare personnel.
According to the deputy minister, these staffing increases have contributed to improvements across the system, including shorter waiting times in emergency departments, easier access to medical appointments and reduced waiting lists for surgical procedures.
Themistokleous also pointed to upgrades in healthcare infrastructure, noting that renovation projects at several state hospitals have been carried out with funding from the Recovery Fund.
