Shortages in self-tests for COVID-19 and flu have arisen in pharmacies in Corfu due to the high demand observed in recent days following the festive season.
For now, the situation isn't posing problems at Corfu hospital, despite the surge in infections due to the time of year. Yesterday, Monday (8/1), there were 10 COVID-19 patients in the Special Infectious Diseases Unit, while hospitalisations in the Paediatric Clinic were limited to six (out of a total of 18 beds), with young patients suffering from respiratory infections. However, during the holidays, especially during the Christmas week, there was a particularly high number of children coming to the PEmergency Department.
Doctors recommend vaccination and taking all necessary measures (e.g., frequent handwashing, ventilation of spaces, avoiding contact with the sick, avoiding close contact). They say that there is an increase in infections due to the time of year, with the epidemic wave of respiratory infections, COVID-19, and the flu being on the rise.
Two out of three
The President of Corfu Pharmaceutical Association, Pericles Rarakos, told Enimerosi that two out of three customers come to pharmacies to purchase tests for COVID-19 and the flu. "The enormous demand has created a temporary shortage of tests for COVID-19 and the flu; however, new batches of self-tests are expected.
"Two out of three customers request to purchase them. At the same time, there are shortages in paediatric antibiotics, certain insulin formulations, and related products, as well as minor shortages in various other medications," he stated.
There is also a high demand for cough syrups and painkillers. Mr. Rarakos said that some people visit pharmacies to schedule appointments at the town Health Centre online for their COVID-19 vaccinations. Regarding influenza vaccines, he said that there is availability, and many people are rushing to get vaccinated against the flu.
Few absences
Meanwhile, Ionian Islands Regional Director of Education, Petros Aggelopoulos, told Enimerosi that the return of pupils to schools in Corfu yesterday, following the holiday break, took place without any real issues. However, there were absences of pupils and teachers, even though it was in single-digit numbers, with some being affected by illnesses and COVID-19, and others choosing to stay at home as a precaition.
