Alpha News

Dead Animal 'Locks Down' Sterilization Ovens at Larnaca General Hospital

Published February 9, 2026, 17:33

The sterilization area for surgical instruments at Larnaca General Hospital has been deemed unsuitable for several weeks, resulting in the shutdown of the ovens. This has led to the transfer of surgical instruments to the Famagusta General Hospital for sterilization. According to information, the area was deemed unsuitable due to the discovery of a dead animal. Health Minister Neofytos Charalambides stated that the area will be restored within two months to meet the appropriate specifications. He emphasized that public hospitals require continuous upgrades and that projects worth over €145 million are underway to upgrade healthcare facilities. This situation highlights the need for continuous maintenance and upgrading of infrastructure in public hospitals to ensure the safe and effective provision of healthcare services. The temporary shutdown of the sterilization area at Larnaca General Hospital highlights the challenges faced by hospitals and the need for investment in healthcare.