COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise in Greece despite slight decrease in positivity rate
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Aug 30, 2024 2 months, 3 weeks, 2 days, 15 hours, 28 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: Greece is currently experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, leading to a corresponding rise in hospitalizations, intubations, and deaths. The latest epidemiological report from the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) highlights the growing concern as key indicators continue to trend upwards despite a slight decrease in the overall positivity rate for SARS-CoV-2. The report, covering the period of August 19-25, underscores the importance of adhering to preventive measures, especially for vulnerable groups.
COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise in Greece despite slight decrease in positivity rate
Rising COVID-19 Metrics: Hospitalizations and Deaths
According to EODY, there were 815 new hospital admissions during the reporting week, marking a slight increase from the previous week’s numbers. This brings the average weekly number of new admissions over the past four weeks to 836, reflecting a steady rise in the need for hospital care among COVID-19 patients. Notably, there were 16 new intubations reported, slightly higher than the weekly average of 14 over the past month. Currently, 38 patients are intubated, indicating a growing burden on intensive care units (ICUs) across the country.
The report also recorded 39 deaths related to COVID-19 during the same period. The average weekly number of deaths has hovered around 40 over the past four weeks, suggesting that the virus continues to pose a serious threat, particularly to older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
https://eody.gov.gr/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ekthesi-epitirisis-anapneustikon-ion-2024-34.pdf
Local
COVID-19 News reports also show that outpatient visits to various hospitals and clinics for various respiratory symptoms have also been increasing.
The Impact of the BA.2.86 Variant
The BA.2.86 variant, characterized by mutations F456L and R346T, has become the predominant strain in Greece since late spring. While this variant has not been linked to an increased risk of severe disease, its widespread circulation has contributed to the surge in COVID-19 cases. Viral load monitoring has detected an increase in SARS-CoV-2 circulation in seven out of the ten areas tested, although three areas did report a decrease.
Despite the slight reduction in positivity rates, the persistence of high levels of community transmission underscores the need for continued vigilance, particularly among high-risk groups. The EODY advises elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions to strictly adhere to preventive measures, such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing, to reduce the risk of infection. The general population is also encouraged to limit contact with vulnerable individuals if they exhibit symptoms of respiratory infections.
Other Respiratory Infe
ctions: Influenza and RSV Remain Low
In addition to COVID-19, the EODY report also provides updates on other respiratory infections, including influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
According to the data, influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases remain low, with no significant increase in reported cases. Influenza positivity, as monitored by surveillance networks in both community and hospital settings, remains very low, with only sporadic positive samples detected. Additionally, no new severe cases requiring ICU admission or deaths from laboratory-confirmed influenza were recorded during the reporting period.
RSV, another common respiratory virus, also shows minimal activity in Greece at present. No positive samples were found in either community settings or hospitals, indicating that RSV is not currently a major public health concern.
The Path Forward: Preventive Measures and Public Health Recommendations
As Greece navigates this latest wave of COVID-19, public health officials emphasize the importance of continued adherence to preventive measures, particularly for those most at risk of severe illness. EODY’s recommendations include the prompt seeking of medical advice for individuals experiencing symptoms of respiratory infections to ensure timely treatment and minimize the risk of complications.
Moreover, the general public is urged to remain cautious and considerate of vulnerable populations by avoiding unnecessary contact if they exhibit symptoms. This approach is vital in preventing further strain on the healthcare system and protecting those who are most at risk.
The EODY report serves as a reminder that while the situation remains manageable, the threat of COVID-19 has not diminished. Continued vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines will be essential in mitigating the impact of the virus in the weeks and months ahead.
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