The monitored XEC sub-variant of BA.2.86 was also detected in Greece, according to the epidemiological report of the EODY for the period 23-29 September.

SARS-CoV2 positivity is on the rise as are admissions, intubations and deaths.

In particular, the report states:

SARS-CoV2 virus – COVID-19 infection

The positivity in all tested samples showed an increase compared to the previous week. 672 new imports were recorded, showing an increase compared to the previous week. The average weekly number of new admissions over the previous 4 weeks was 593.

The number of new intubations was nine. The average weekly number of new intubations during the previous 4 weeks was eight.

The number of intubated patients with COVID-19 infection is 23.

The number of deaths was 35. The average weekly number of deaths in the previous 4 weeks was 29.

As of 9/27, the KP.3 sub-variant of BA.2.86 was recognized by the ECDC as a strain of interest, while the XEC sub-variant of BA.2.86 was also put under surveillance.

In recent weeks the predominant strain is KP.3, while the first XEC strains were detected in the country.

These strains have not been associated with an increased risk of severe disease.

Nationally, the weighted viral load in municipal wastewater is at moderate levels relative to historical data, with a mild upward trend.

In four of the ten regions the levels of the viral load appear high, with an apparent increasing trend, while in the remaining regions the levels are low/moderate.

Vulnerable population groups (elderly and people with underlying diseases) are advised to scrupulously follow preventive measures against respiratory infections and to seek medical advice in time for symptoms, in order to provide timely treatment. At the same time, it is recommended to the general population, in the presence of respiratory infection symptoms, to limit contact with people who belong to vulnerable groups.

Influenza virus

Influenza positivity as assessed by surveillance networks in the community (PHC Sentinel surveillance network) and in the hospital setting (SARI surveillance network) remains very low, with only sporadic positive samples being detected.

No new serious case with ICU hospitalization was recorded, nor was there a new death from laboratory-confirmed influenza.

Influenza subscription – ILI (regardless of pathogen)

The number of influenza cases per 1,000 visits remains low.

Severe Acute Respiratory Infection – SARI (regardless of pathogen)

The number of SARI cases per 1,000 visits remains low.

Respiratory syncytial virus – RSV

No positive samples were found in both the community (PHC Sentinel surveillance network) and hospitals (SARI surveillance network).