Coronavirus: Record number in ICU but situation ‘manageable’

Though a record number of 42 patients are presently in intensive care units (ICUs), the situation in state hospitals remains manageable, spokesperson for state health services organisation (Okypy), Charalambos Charilaou said on Thursday.

According to Charilaou, the number of patients with Covid-19 in state hospitals is close to 300 and they are working to secure more beds.

“Despite the difficulties, the situation is manageable,” he told the Cyprus News Agency.

On Wednesday, it was announced that 286 patients were in hospital with the virus, 83 of them in serious condition including 40 who were intubated.

Charilaou said on Thursday that a record 42 patients were being treated in ICUs. The previous record was on April 26 when 39 people were in ICUs.

“We are opening beds where and when necessary, so that no one is left without the necessary medical help,” he said.

By Friday, for instance, more than 40 beds will be available for Covid patients at the Paphos hospital, he added, expressing hope that this would relieve some pressure on the health system.

Regarding those waiting at home for a hospital bed, Charilaou said that after much effort, they were able to accommodate everyone.

He stressed that there was no problem as regards available beds citing Okypy’s action plan.

Charilaou said there were “enough” available beds but repeated the state’s call on the public to get vaccinated and continue to observe the personal protection measures.