Cyprus is set to launch a platform for microbial resistance in early 2026, authorities have announced.
The platform, which was developed to contribute to the systematic surveillance of hospital-acquired infections, antimicrobial consumption and antimicrobial resistance, is part of the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Infections in health sector and the National Strategy for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance.
The main parameters of the Action Plan and the Strategy were unveiled during the press conference at the Health Ministry as Cyprus is among the EU member states with the highest use of antibiotics.
Dr. Michalis Mendris, who presented the National Strategy for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance on 18 December, said that 1.27 million deaths worldwide are attributed to antimicrobial resistance and that another 4.95 million deaths are associated with it, according to data from 2019.
As regards Cyprus the figures show an increasing trend in both antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. He stressed, however, that it is important to record and process these figures and the platform will assist to this end.
He also noted that in the framework of the actions, instructions were given to hospitals in order to set up antibiotic logistics teams, while cooperation is also being developed with Health Insurance Organisation (HIO), to monitor the prescription of medicines through the ΝΗS (GeSY) platform.
Dr. Despo Constantinou, presenting the National Action Plan for the prevention and control of infections said that figures from the European Center for Infection Prevention and Control, show that approximately 20% of hospital infections, which affect 4.3 million patients in Europe every year, can be prevented through prevention and control programs.
Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides said that the tools developed aim at reducing hospital infections, strengthening surveillance, the rational use of antimicrobials and the holistic treatment of antimicrobial resistance, through the cooperation of all sectors involved.
He continued by saying that the establishment and operation of Local Infection Control Committees in all hospitals, as well as the establishment and operation of Antibiotic Logistics teams, as well as the submission of figures through the platform, are mandatory.
He explained that the platform will monitor selected hospital infections, hospital consumption of antimicrobials, compliance of healthcare professionals with hand hygiene, and quality indicators of hospital organization and infrastructure, related to the prevention and control of hospital infections.
Deputy Permanent Secretary of Health Ministry Elisavet Constantinou, explained that through these tools, a scientifically documented effort is being carried out to address infections, while she emphasized that their success requires the cooperation, consistency and commitment of all stakeholders involved.
Dr. Markella Markou said that these tools are a milestone for the health care system in Cyprus and added that she expects that all hospitals, namely the eight public and approximately 75 private, will register on the platform in January 2026, so that they can start providing figures.
Dr. Markou further said that a manual was prepared by KIOS Center of Excellence, which undertook the development of the electronic platform in collaboration with the Medical Services, with funding from the EU Recovery and Resilience Fund.
She said that difficulties are expected but went on to note that the benefits are significant and will contribute to addressing the challenges related to public health.
(Source: CNA)
