Greece battles aggressive flu outbreak as hospitals overflow with severe cases

A severe flu outbreak has hit Greece since October 2025, with hospitals reporting a sharp rise in cases. Doctors warn that this year's strain is more aggressive, leading to higher hospital admissions and at least three deaths so far. The current flu strain, subtype K of A(H3N2), spreads more easily due to mutations that bypass existing immunity. On Tuesday alone, Gennimatas Hospital treated around 30 flu patients in its emergency department. Dr Eleni Bagia, a physician there, noted that symptoms this season appear worse than in previous years. Since the outbreak began, 15 people have needed intensive care. Three of those patients have died. Health officials stress that the epidemic has not yet reached its peak. They also anticipate a further increase in infections among children once schools reopen. Hospitals are preparing for a continued rise in flu cases, though exact figures on ICU bed availability remain unclear. The situation is being closely monitored as the outbreak progresses.