Greece continues to face a severe seasonal flu outbreak, with two young children currently being treated in intensive care, highlighting the ongoing pressure on the country’s health system.
The two children, aged three and six, are hospitalized at a major pediatric hospital in Athens. The older child has been intubated, while the younger is reported to be in a more stable condition.
Rising Severe Cases, Despite Fewer Hospital Admissions
According to the National Public Health Organization (EODY), during the week of January 12–18, 2026, authorities recorded:
- 23 new severe flu cases requiring admission to intensive care units (ICUs)
- Seven new deaths linked to laboratory-confirmed influenza
While the number of new hospital admissions has declined significantly, the flu virus continues to cause serious illness, particularly among vulnerable groups. In the previous week, Greece recorded 871 new hospital admissions, compared to 613 during the most recent reporting period.
Overall Impact of the 2025–2026 Flu Season
Since the start of the current surveillance period in autumn 2025, Greece has reported:
- 81 ICU admissions due to confirmed influenza
- 23 deaths linked to severe flu cases
Looking at a broader timeframe, from early 2024 through January 2026, the total number of recorded deaths associated with severe, laboratory-confirmed influenza has reached 170.
Virus Strains and Community Spread
Laboratory analysis shows that the outbreak is dominated by influenza type A, with nearly all positive samples falling into this category. Among those analyzed further, most belonged to the A(H3) subtype, followed by A(H1)pdm09.
Health authorities also reported that influenza virus levels detected in urban wastewater remain high, indicating continued widespread circulation of the virus in the community.
Strong Call for Vaccination and Prevention
EODY has reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, particularly for high-risk groups. The agency urges prompt medical attention for flu-like symptoms, timely antiviral treatment when appropriate, and precautionary measures such as wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, frequent handwashing, good ventilation, and proper respiratory hygiene.
