Greek health authorities are raising concerns about a surge in Influenza A cases, including a newer subtype referred to as the subclade K. Speaking to Greek media, Matina Pagoni, president of the Hellenic Society of Internal Medicine, stressed that while the situation does not require panic, awareness and early vaccination—especially for high-risk groups—remain crucial.
According to Pagoni, influenza activity has been unusually persistent since May, no longer following traditional seasonal patterns. She emphasized that people with underlying health conditions should already have received their flu shot, noting that the vaccine needs around two weeks to build adequate immunity.
Symptoms and testing
Pagoni explained that symptoms of the new strain can be intense, with patients frequently reporting very high fever, sore throat, muscle pain, exhaustion and difficulty even getting out of bed. She advised the public to test promptly for flu and Covid-19, and to repeat testing if the first result appears early in the illness and returns negative.
Milder viral infections, she added, typically cause low-grade fever that resolves within a few days. In contrast, Influenza A and Covid often produce more severe symptoms requiring closer monitoring. Antipyretics and antiviral medications, when indicated, can help improve the clinical course of confirmed flu cases.
While most healthy individuals can recover at home, 25–30% of patients with underlying conditions may need hospital care. In previous seasons, severe Influenza A infections led to intubations and deaths, though experts hope improved vaccination rates this year will prevent similar outcomes.
Covid vaccination guidance
Pagoni also relayed updated recommendations from Greece’s National Vaccination Committee. People over 64 with underlying conditions, as well as everyone over 75 regardless of health status, should receive the Covid vaccine. Some in these groups are advised to get two doses—six months apart—while younger individuals only require vaccination if they have chronic health issues. Children should be vaccinated only on a pediatrician’s recommendation.
She also urged families to reinstate basic protective habits: regular handwashing, carrying tissues and sanitizer, and keeping symptomatic children home from school to prevent classroom outbreaks.
Gastroenteritis remains active
Seasonal gastroenteritis, which also persisted through the summer, continues to circulate. Pagoni warned against unnecessary antibiotic use, stressing that most cases are viral and require hydration rather than medication. Symptoms typically improve within two to three days.
