Cyprus paediatricians flag rise in staph skin infections as pupils return to school

Local childrenhealthschoolsstudentsTop News Cyprus paediatricians flag rise in staph skin infections as pupils return to school Paidia Loimokseis Id 1617394 Relevant News Cyprus paediatricians flag rise in staph skin infections as pupils return to school 15 September 2026 How foreign residents in Cyprus can access the Digital Citizen app 15 September 2026 Cyprus hourly labour costs rise 3.8% year-on-year in second quarter 15 September 2026 Marilena Panayi 15 September 2026 FacebookXWhatsAppEmailPrintViber Cyprus paediatricians are warning of increased cases of skin infections, particularly staphylococcus, as children return to school this autumn. The warning comes alongside the usual rise in winter viruses and infections that follows the start of term. “With pupils returning to school,” Cyprus Paediatric Society president Michalis Anastasiadis told “F”, “viral illnesses and other contagious infections are once again becoming a concern for families. “At this time of year, and this year in particular, what we’re seeing is that skin infections need somewhat more attention, as there’s a rise in cases attributed to staphylococcus. “What we’re saying shouldn’t cause panic, but we do want to stress how important it is to recognise symptoms early, maintain proper hygiene, and avoid treatment without medical guidance,” he said. Anastasiadis explained that this is a superficial but fairly contagious infection, usually starting with redness or small blisters. The lesions often appear around the nose and mouth, though they can occur elsewhere on the body. In some cases, though, the infection can present differently: as pus-filled spots, folliculitis, or a red, warm and painful abscess. Transmission mainly happens through direct contact with the infected area or with objects that have touched the lesions, he said, “which is why we’re flagging this now, given how much children inevitably mix together in a school setting.” When a child needs to see a doctor Parents should contact a paediatrician if: The redness is growing or spreading quickly There is pus, intense pain, swelling or heat in the area The child develops a fever or severe fatigue The lesion is near the eyes Multiple or recurring sites appear The child has a chronic condition or weakened immune system Rapidly spreading redness, high fever, drowsiness, difficulty breathing or a general deterioration in the child’s condition all require immediate medical assessment. Children should stay home while lesions are weeping and cannot be safely covered, for at least 12 to 48 hours after starting appropriate treatment. Parents should also notify the school promptly, so that cleaning of shared surfaces and monitoring for similar cases can be stepped up, without stigmatising the child. Prevention starts with simple habits School terms also typically bring more respiratory infections, gastroenteritis, streptococcus cases, intestinal parasites and, of course, head lice. The most effective measures are simple: Frequent handwashing with soap Covering coughs and sneezes with the elbow or a tissue Regular ventilation of classrooms and the home Cleaning and covering every small wound Keeping nails short and clean Avoiding shared towels, clothes, hats, combs and water bottles Adequate sleep, a balanced diet and daily physical activity Parents should also check with their paediatrician that vaccinations are up to date under the 2026 National Vaccination Programme for Children and Adolescents. When a child should stay home A child should stay off school when they have a fever, are visibly fatigued, or cannot comfortably take part in the school day. After a febrile illness, they can return once they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication and are generally well. With vomiting or diarrhoea, children should stay home for the duration of symptoms and for 48 hours after they clear. With streptococcal pharyngitis or scarlet fever, children can return once they are well and have completed the course of antibiotics set by their paediatrician. By contrast, a simple runny nose or mild cough without fever doesn’t always require absence, as long as the child is in good spirits and can follow the school routine normally. Finally, where a child has asthma, a severe allergy, diabetes, epilepsy or another chronic condition, the school should have written instructions, up-to-date contact details, and any medication prescribed by the treating doctor. Flu and RSV vaccinations begin soon Anastasiadis noted that flu vaccinations will begin in the coming period, and repeated the Society’s annual call for parents to bring their children in. “Every year we call on parents to bring their children, not just those with chronic health problems but all children over six months old, to our clinics for the necessary flu vaccination. “It was worth reminding people again this year, and of course parents can wait for the official announcements to arrange their appointment. This will be the second year the RSV monoclonal antibody is offered. Last year’s rollout, combined with the equivalent vaccine given to pregnant women, showed notable effectiveness,” he said. 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