There is an increase in the positivity of samples for SARS-CoV-2 and admissions to hospitals, according to the weekly epidemiological report of the EODY for viral infections of the respiratory system (SARS-CoV-2, influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial virus – RSV). 11% of SARS-CoV-2 cases are due to the new sub-variant Eris and the cases recorded to date are 41, all from Crete. Results are expected from other regions as well.

SARS-CoV-2 virus – COVID-19 infection: The positivity in all tested samples showed an increase compared to the previous week. The number of admissions for COVID-19 (n=469) showed an increase from the previous week and a 78% increase from the average weekly number of new admissions over the previous 4 weeks. The number of new intubations (n=8) showed a decrease compared to the previous week and a 33% increase compared to the average weekly number of new intubations over the previous 4 weeks. The number of intubated patients with COVID-19 infection is 18. There were 22 deaths with a median age of 86 years (range 69-97 years).

In 11% of SARS-CoV2 samples the new sub-variant Eris

In recent weeks all sequenced strains belonged to the Omicron sub-variants BA.2 and BA.5, with BA.2 predominating. The most frequent BA.2 sub-variant was XBB.1.5 (77%), followed by XBB.1.16 (11%) and EG.5.1 (11%).

Regarding the new sub-variant of the Omicron strain EG.5.1, which was designated as a sub-variant of epidemiological interest by the World Health Organization, the data are currently as follows:

a) there is no indication that it causes more serious disease

b) in the UK the increase in this sub-variant in the last month was accompanied by increased morbidity in the community

c) in Greece, a total of 41 positive samples of the EG.5.1 sub-variant have been recorded with a sampling date from 31/5 to 27/7

d) of the results of genomic analysis, 94% related to samples sent by the Virological Laboratory – PEDY of Crete. The results of the analysis of samples from the rest of the country are awaited.

Viral load surveillance in municipal wastewater showed an increase in SARSCoV-2 virus circulation in 9 out of 10 areas tested.

Influenza virus: Influenza positivity in the community remains below 10% (sentinel). There was no new severe case of laboratory-confirmed influenza with ICU hospitalization, nor a new death from laboratory-confirmed influenza.

Influenza symptoms (regardless of pathogen): Remain at low levels

Respiratory syncytial virus – RSV: All tested samples were negative for RSV.