Cyprus Mail
CyprusFeatured

Coronavirus: We must be aware of danger of third wave expert warns

The Outbreak Of The Coronavirus Disease (covid 19), In Lodi
File photo

The danger of a third Covid-19 wave is real, according to Petros Karayiannis, professor of microbiology and molecular virology at the University of Nicosia Medical School.

Karayiannis, who is also a member of the health ministry’s advisory committee, said on Wednesday that a setback in the fight against the virus is always around the corner.

However, he added that, with a strict adherence to the measures even after some relaxations, a potential third wave can be avoided.

“We now have a good epidemiological situation in the country, also thanks to the many tests we carry out each day,” he said.

“However, the danger is real, and we must not underestimate it. What creates uncertainty is the possibility of the virus’ variants spreading in Cyprus. It happened in other countries and it could happen here as well. It’s up to us to prevent that from taking place.”

Karayiannis said that the low number of cases registered on Tuesday (81), are an encouraging signal, but added that it is too early to lift more measures.

“We are only in the second week after the relaxations. We need to have a clearer picture in a week or two to decide whether we can relax additional rules currently in place.”

Moreover, Karayiannis said he believes the situation will further improve with the arrival of warmer months, “as hotter temperatures will allow us to avoid indoor spaces”.

He also added that the vaccination campaign is progressing at a satisfactory pace.

“Vaccinations are progressing rapidly. We did not register any significant delay and jabs are widely available at the moment.

“We are also hoping that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will get the green light from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) soon, so that more vaccines could be deployed in the battle against the virus.”

 

Follow the Cyprus Mail on Google News

Related Posts

Alarm bells over unregistered Paphos tourist units

Kyriacos Nicolaou

Turkish Cypriot social media journalist arrested

Tom Cleaver

Alarm sounded over atmospheric dust levels

Tom Cleaver

34 applications for Stelios bicommunal awards

Tom Cleaver

Larnaca mayor Vyras kicks off re-election campaign

Tom Cleaver

CBC maintains countercyclical buffer rate at 1 per cent for 2024

Kyriacos Nicolaou