Investigation launched into death of 72-year-old patient at Larnaca General Hospital

The State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) and the Cyprus Ministry of Health have launched an investigation into the death of 72-year-old Konstantia Nikolaou at Larnaca General Hospital. The patient was admitted on January 17, 2026, with COVID-19 symptoms but reportedly waited five hours before being examined by a doctor who then diagnosed her with sepsis. Her family alleges significant neglect, claiming she was left without water or medication while staff were distracted by a separate shooting incident in the city. Relatives also highlighted a discrepancy in communication, receiving a status update at 03:51 stating she was fine, followed by a death notification at 04:17. In response, OKYPY spokesman Charilaos Charilaou stated that the patient was seen by three specialists and underwent diagnostic tests, including a CT scan and blood analysis. The Ministry of Health has requested a formal factual report to determine if further disciplinary or legal actions are necessary. Meanwhile, other citizens have come forward with similar complaints about long wait times and inadequate medical attention at the same facility. The Federation of Patients' Associations of Cyprus (OSAK) has also expressed strong concern over the incident and called for accountability.