Greek commentator Giorgos Trangas’ death puts spotlight on unvaccinated

·

An unvaccinated Greek commentator and publisher died of respiratory failure and resulting complications from COVID-19 COVID-19 on Tuesday.

It focuses public attention on the large number of older people in Greece who still haven’t received their shots as the country struggles with a spike in infections and deaths.

Giorgos Trangas, 71, who had diabetes, died at a state hospital in Athens after being admitted on Dec. 4 with severe breathing difficulties. 

He was unvaccinated and had recently formed a small political party, “Free People,” that was critical of vaccine mandates and lockdown measures.

With a quarter of the adult population unvaccinated, Greece is suffering a third major surge of infections this winter with the COVID-19 death rate just below peak levels recorded a year ago.

The government has imposed a vaccination mandate on residents over age 60 to be enforced in January with a 100-euro ($110) monthly fine, while vaccination certificates will also expire after seven months for seniors who fail to get a booster shot.

Trangas’ doctor, Christos Zoupas, said he had pleaded with him to get vaccinated.

“I think he thought that he would just tough it out, the way he had with so many other things in his life, as if it’s like getting the flu,” Zoupas told state-run ERT television. 

“I tried to persuade him to get vaccinated up until the last moment.”

Source: AP 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Northcote Festival bursts to life with culture, dance and community spirit

Spring sprung a week early as the Northcote Festival at the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin returned for its second year.

Retired Brisbane doctor Stan Theodoros faces Tribunal over alleged misconduct

Retired Brisbane doctor Dr Stellios (Stan) Theodoros is facing 25 allegations of professional misconduct in the QCAT.

Gogglebox star Anastasia Katselas undergoes emergency cancer surgery

Gogglebox Australia personality Anastasia Katselas has revealed she underwent emergency surgery after being diagnosed with uterine cancer.

Holy Eparchial Synod in Sydney names candidates for new Bishops

The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia concluded its extraordinary three-day session with key decisions made

George Skemperis assumes role as new Consul General of Greece in Sydney

The new Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, George Skemperis, officially assumed his duties on August 20.

You May Also Like

Greek composer Takis Mousafiris passes away after battle with cancer

Greek composer and lyricist Takis Mousafiris has tragically passed away after a six month battle with cancer, his family announced.

Remembering Greek Revolution hero, Nikitas Stametopoulos

Nikitas Stamatelopoulos was one of the greatest heroes of the Greek War of Independence, next to his uncle, Theodore Kolokotronis.

Archbishop Makarios of Australia: ‘I will be vaccinated, even in public’

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia has confirmed that he will be vaccinated against COVID-19 and encouraged others to do the same.