There has been a great deal of discussion since Omicron increased the positive cases of coronation, not only in Cyprus but also in the world, for the way in which the population checks are carried out.
Speaking on state television today, the doctor of the Limassol General Hospital, Dr. Christos Kypri, expressed the opinion that it would be preferable to take the samples pharyngally and not nasally from the tests.
"I am a clinician, I believe that if the epidemiological team has the same opinion, they will suggest it," he said.
Commenting on the opinion of Dr. Kypris, the member of the epidemiological team and microbiologist Dr. Petros Karagiannis said that it was something that he himself had suggested during the last meeting of the members of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Health with the Minister, Michalis Hadjipandella.
"There are data and studies from the United Kingdom that show that the Omicron mutation mainly affects the pharynx and upper respiratory tract. "There is a high probability that a satisfactory sample will not be taken from the nose and at this stage the samples must be taken correctly," he explained.
Dr. Karagiannis said that he made a suggestion to the Ministry to take the samples differently and their suggestion will be discussed in today's new meeting that will take place in the afternoon.
Asked if anyone who has tested positive for the virus could be re-infected, Dr. Karagiannis said it could be re-infected earlier than three months after the disease certificate is valid.