Thessaloniki, Greece – A groundbreaking study published on April 10, 2025, in Scientific Reports has…
Tag: public health
Greece faces a worsening air pollution crisis as Athens and Thessaloniki exceed EU limits for nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and fine particulates, according to the 2024 European Environment Agency report. With levels far above WHO guidelines, the health of millions is at risk, driven by heavy traffic and residential emissions.
In a significant move for Greece’s military, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announced on March 28, 2025, that uniformed personnel will receive pay raises of 13% to 20%, effective April 1. Unveiling a €268 million reform, Dendias emphasised a fairer payroll system and outlined plans for housing and healthcare improvements under the “Agenda 2030” initiative, aiming to bolster the Armed Forces’ role as an economic driver.
The National Public Health Organization (EODY) has issued guidelines to protect citizens from African dust, a recurring phenomenon affecting Greece’s air quality. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, are urged to take precautions. Experts recommend limiting outdoor activities, using high-filtration masks, and improving indoor air quality. Schools are also advised to modify activities to safeguard students. With dust events expected to continue, authorities emphasize staying informed and taking proactive health measures.
Greece is facing a severe water crisis as aging infrastructure and climate change exacerbate shortages across the country. In Argolida, leaky pipes waste half the region’s water supply, while brackish backup sources compromise drinking water quality. The EU has launched a major initiative to curb water losses, but with some areas experiencing leakages as high as 80%, experts warn that fundamental fixes are urgently needed. As farmers drill ever deeper for dwindling resources, many Greeks pin their hopes on rainy winters to ease the strain.
A 46-year-old psychiatric patient who escaped after fatally attacking a fellow patient at Dafni Psychiatric Hospital has been arrested. Authorities are now investigating how the incident occurred, especially given the suspect’s history—he had previously been involved in a fatal attack at Corfu Psychiatric Hospital in 2023. The case has raised concerns about security measures in psychiatric institutions and the management of high-risk patients.
In a widely expected decision, the U.S. Senate has confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the new head of the Department of Health and Human Services. Known for his active engagement in health advocacy, Kennedy brings his unique viewpoint to the department, sparking interest in how his leadership will influence future health initiatives and policies.
Europe takes strides towards a smoke-free generation by 2040 with stricter smoking bans, but some countries like Greece and Bulgaria face challenges in implementing and enforcing these regulations.
Health authorities in Chania are on high alert after 35 students from Athens fell ill with norovirus while on a school trip. The outbreak, linked to a hotel stay, caused symptoms of gastroenteritis, prompting hospital visits and isolation measures. Officials confirmed the virus’s presence through food and water testing, urging strict hygiene practices to prevent further spread.
Severe rainfall in Athens on Tuesday caused widespread flooding, disrupting key roads and halting traffic. Piraeus Street has since reopened, though overflow issues also arose on Poseidon Avenue due to excessive water and illegal drainage inflows. EYDAP is working on long-term solutions, including a €2.1 billion investment plan to improve the city’s drainage infrastructure and prevent future flooding.
Greece is tightening regulations on the sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors with a new bill introducing stricter penalties and mandatory age verification. Under the proposed law, violations will result in severe sanctions, including business closures for repeat offenders. The Hellenic Police will lead enforcement efforts, while a new unit within EODY will oversee tobacco-related regulations.
A 20-year-old university student died within hours of being diagnosed with fulminant meningitis at the University Hospital in Patras. The infection progressed rapidly after he developed symptoms, and despite medical efforts, he passed away early Tuesday. In response, Greece’s National Public Health Organization (EODY) has deployed a team to the region, with preventive measures underway, including chemoprophylaxis for 40 students. This marks the latest case in a series of meningitis incidents in Patras.
Greek public hospitals are facing a growing crisis as overcrowding, staff shortages, and a surge in viral infections push the healthcare system to its limits. Major facilities like “Attikon” and “G. Gennimatas” hospitals are struggling to manage the influx of patients, with many left waiting on makeshift beds for days. Doctors and staff have raised alarms over unsustainable working conditions, calling for immediate government intervention to address the shortages and improve patient care.
At least 33 people have died and 48 others hospitalized in Istanbul due to methanol poisoning from adulterated alcohol, according to Turkish authorities. Four suspects have been arrested for selling the illicit beverages, as critics blame high alcohol taxes for fueling illegal production. This incident highlights ongoing public health risks and economic challenges in Turkey.
Greek health officials are on high alert after confirming the country’s first case of HMPV in a 71-year-old man in Thessaloniki. The patient’s daughter recently returned from China, raising concerns about international transmission. The man’s condition worsened, necessitating transfer to another clinic. Contact tracing is underway.
A new study linking higher fluoride exposure to lower IQ scores in children has reignited the debate surrounding fluoridated water. Researchers analyzed 74 studies and found a statistically significant association, estimating a 1.63 point IQ drop for every 1 mg/L increase in urinary fluoride. While proponents cite the dental benefits of fluoridation, critics raise concerns about potential neurological harm and methodological limitations of the study. The research raises questions about current water fluoridation guidelines and the need for further investigation.
According to The Noticer, a joint venture between a British biotechnology company funded by Bill…
A shocking incident occurred at Arta General Hospital early this morning when a 41-year-old woman fell from the fourth floor to the second floor. Emergency services responded swiftly, rescuing the woman, who was conscious during the operation. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the fall, with no further details released yet.
The Greek government is taking decisive steps to address key public health and urban living challenges. Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister Thanasis Kontogeorgis announced upcoming legislation to ban alcohol sales to minors and strengthen smoking regulations, while also unveiling plans to improve Athens’ public transport and road safety framework. These measures aim to enhance the quality of life and protect public well-being across Greece.
Cocaine consumption in Attica has nearly doubled during the Christmas season, according to wastewater analysis. Professor Nikos Thomaidis revealed that daily use jumps from one kilogram to almost two kilograms as the holidays approach, highlighting a concerning trend of increased drug abuse during festive periods.