COVID19: Cyprus new cases sneak back up to five

New coronavirus cases in Cyprus edged back up to five on Monday from only one the previous day although health officials said there was no reason for alarm over the sudden jump.

The five new COVID-19 cases announced by the Health Ministry on Monday were identified from a total of 1,504 tests.

The total number of cases in Cyprus stands at 949.

Three cases concern Cypriots who have recently been repatriated (106 tests), while one case was identified through tests conducted on people to be hospitalised or to receive treatment at a hospital (104 tests).

Another case was identified among 616 tests conducted within the framework of the 10,000 tests sponsored by the government for employees at hair salons, barbershops and tattoo parlours.

Some 233 tests on school students and teachers came back negative.

Presenting the data on behalf of the Health Ministry, epidemiologist and member of the advisory committee to the government, Dr Leontios Kostrikis said that results remain within the expected range, maintaining a positive epidemiological picture.

“Results are still positive. There is no reason to be alarmed, however, we will all need to continue being careful and adhere to health protocols,” said Kostrikis.

On Monday there were three Covid-19 patients at Famagusta General, the referral hospital for coronavirus.

Another three patients remain intubated at the ICU of Nicosia Hospital.