Greece’s National Public Health Organization (EODY) has issued an urgent warning over a sharp increase in influenza cases, as hospitals across the country struggle to cope with a surge in admissions during the holiday season. Health officials describe the situation as highly concerning, noting that a significant proportion of hospitalized patients are suffering from severe forms of the flu.
According to EODY representatives, hospital admissions related to influenza more than doubled in the period between December 22 and December 28. Many of the most serious cases involve people who have not been vaccinated, reinforcing concerns about low vaccine uptake amid an intense seasonal outbreak.
In response, public health experts are strongly urging unvaccinated individuals to get the flu shot without delay, particularly those belonging to high-risk groups. Vaccination is described as the most effective tool to prevent severe illness and flu-related deaths. Authorities also stress the importance of starting antiviral treatment as soon as symptoms appear in vulnerable patients, even before laboratory confirmation. In closed settings such as long-term care facilities, preventive antiviral medication may also be considered.
EODY is also calling for strict adherence to basic protective measures, including frequent handwashing, avoiding touching the face, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces for high-risk individuals, proper respiratory hygiene, good ventilation, and staying at home when symptoms develop.
Common warning signs of influenza include high fever, persistent cough, muscle and joint pain, severe headache, runny nose, hoarseness, and intense fatigue. In young children, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea may also occur.
