Flu, noravirus infections lead to surge in hospital admissions
Hospital admissions have risen in recent weeks due to an increase in flu and norovirus infections, Mater Dei Hospital has confirmed. Health officials said the number of cases recorded is higher than during the same period last year, with the early start of the flu season identified as a key factor. More patients are developing flu-like symptoms earlier than usual, a trend that is also being reflected in higher admission rates. The hospital also reported a rise in gastric illness, largely linked to norovirus, a common cause of viral gastroenteritis. Mater Dei pointed to possible causes including changes in virus strains, reduced immunity, increased indoor gatherings and lower vaccination uptake. The public is being urged to get vaccinated and follow basic hygiene measures. (Times of Malta)
Property Market Shows Resilience as Promises of Sale Rise Developers have welcomed a seven per cent increase in promises of sale recorded in 2025 when compared to the previous year, describing the figures as a strong signal of resilience in Malta’s property market. According to the Malta Development Association, the total number of promises of sale rose from 15,266 in 2024 to 16,636 in 2025, confirming continued demand despite ongoing economic uncertainties. The association also highlighted a sharp increase in value, with the total worth of promises of sale climbing from €5.11 billion to almost €6 billion. This represents a rise of €851 million, or 17 per cent, over the same period. The MDA said the figures reflected sustained confidence in the sector, underlining the property market’s ability to adapt and perform steadily amid changing financial and regulatory conditions.(The Malta Independent)
Cardiology Services Remained Fully Operational Over Festive Period Cardiology services at Mater Dei Hospital continued without interruption throughout the recent festive period, with official figures showing an increase in interventions compared to the previous year. Hospital data indicates that between 22 December and 1 January, doctors carried out 58 urgent cardiac procedures and a further 29 planned interventions. This represents almost double the number of planned heart procedures performed during the same period a year earlier. Medical Director Dr Kevin Cortis said that medical services do not pause for holidays, confirming that both urgent and planned cardiology care remained fully accessible with the same standards provided throughout the year. He also cautioned that media reports containing unfounded allegations can be misleading and risk misrepresenting the clinical reality faced by healthcare professionals working continuously during peak periods. (TVM)
