Private clinic in Nicosia suspended after legionella case

A newborn infant remains in critical condition at Makarios Hospital following an infection with the Legionella bacterium, which was linked to a private clinic in Nicosia. Upon the detection of the pathogen, health authorities ordered the immediate suspension of the clinic's operating license, leading the Health Insurance Organization (HIO) to terminate the facility's contract with the General Health System (GeSY). Consequently, the clinic cannot admit new patients or file for state reimbursement until safety protocols are fully satisfied.

Investigative efforts are currently focused on identifying the specific source of the infection, with environmental samples taken from both the private clinic and the family's residence. Dr. Michalis Mendris, a member of the Ministry of Health's epidemiological surveillance unit, confirmed that preliminary laboratory results were inconclusive as of late October 2026. Experts are currently performing more specialized analysis, with final results expected in the coming week. Officials maintain a vigilant watch, noting that no other cases have been identified among other newborns or adults associated with the facility.