Cyprus Medical Services Ready for Monkeypox: Outbreak Risk Very Low

Cyprus's medical authorities are well-prepared to address any potential cases of monkeypox on the island, although they emphasize that the risk of an outbreak remains "very low."

Elizaveta Konstantinou, Director of Medical Services and Public Health, reported that there have been five confirmed cases of monkeypox in Cyprus from 2022 to the present.

"The Ministry of Health is continuously evaluating our preparedness, reviewing available resources, and updating protocols. We address this issue daily. Should a public health alert or emergency arise, we are prepared to act. Since 2022, there have been only five cases reported in Cyprus," Konstantinou said.

She highlighted that despite the very low risk of an outbreak, relevant agencies are actively involved in daily meetings with the ECDC and World Health Organization.

Vaccinations are available at adult vaccination centers in all cities across Cyprus, with a sufficient supply of effective vaccines and necessary pharmaceutical products.

The Ministry of Health has also issued travel recommendations for those visiting African countries experiencing monkeypox outbreaks.

"We advise travelers to get vaccinated before visiting these countries and to avoid contact with individuals who have rashes or symptoms of the disease," the Ministry's statement read.

Currently, diagnostic tests for monkeypox are conducted at Nicosia General Hospital, the Microbiological Laboratory, and the Institute of Neurology and Genetics.

"According to the ECDC risk assessment, EU citizens who have not traveled to or do not plan to visit outbreak areas have a very low risk of contracting monkeypox," emphasized Konstantinou.