The new FLiRT variant of the virus has led to a big increase in numbers infected in Greece with tourists warned to be careful and neighbouring countries issuing prevention advice
Brits jetting off to Greece have been issued a stark warning as Covid cases surge due to the new FLiRT variant. The National Public Health Organization EODY has reported a significant increase in hospital admissions, with 669 new COVID-19 patients admitted from July 8 to 14, 2024.
The latest epidemiological report from EODY reveals that 12 patients required ventilator support, including a child under 9 years old. Tragically, 26 Covid-patients lost their lives in the same week.
EODY is urging vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, to strictly adhere to respiratory infection prevention measures. They also advise seeking immediate medical advice if symptoms are experienced to ensure prompt treatment.
Last week, Metaxas oncology hospital in Athens reintroduced mandatory mask-wearing and testing for patients and accompanying persons. The UK Health Safety Agency has listed the symptoms of COVID-19, flu and common respiratory infections for travellers to be aware of. There are currently no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Greece.
UK Health Safety Agency has issued a stark warning saying: “If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people, until you no longer have a high temperature (if you had one) or until you no longer feel unwell.”
Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- continuous cough
- high temperature, fever or chills
- loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell
- shortness of breath
- unexplained tiredness, lack of energy
- muscle aches or pains that are not due to exercise
- not wanting to eat or not feeling hungry
- headache that is unusual or longer lasting than usual
- sore throat, stuffy or runny nose
- diarrhoea, feeling sick or being sick
Bulgaria’s Foreign Ministry situation centre is concerned about the outbreak in Greece which sits on its borders. It said yesterday: “In this regard and considering the large number of Bulgarian citizens visiting the country during the summer period, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends strict compliance with preventive and hygienic measures in the context of the spread of the disease.”
