Greek minister claims an increase in ICU’s would result in ‘more deaths’

·

State Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis appeared in news headlines on Tuesday morning after making a controversial claim that an increase in supply of ICU beds would lead to more hospital deaths from COVID-19.

Speaking to state broadcaster ERT, Gerapetritis’ claims were made after it was found that 50 percent of Covid-19 patients in ICU do not survive.

“If we had 5,000 ICUs, this would mean in the normal course of events that we would have a much higher number of dead,” Gerapatritis said.

These seemingly outrageous claims have been compared with those of US President Donald Trump, who said earlier this year that the reason the US has the most cases is because they do the most testing.

Gerapatritis speaks following the death of a COVID-19 infectious man who was in need of an ICU, as there was no bed available in Trikala, and later died of cardiac arrest.

“Obviously we would like to have two, three and five thousand ICUs. But keep in mind that ICUs are not the solution, we must first take care of ourselves so that we do not have to resort to these Units,” Gerapatritis said.

“Assuming we had 5,000 ICUs this would mean we would have a much higher number of deaths. Because mortality in ICUs is halved.

“The aim is not to increase those who enter but to reduce the phenomenon by observing the measures and having as much social distance as possible.”

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Step into the world of mental health with Georgia Cassimatis’ latest book

Greek Australian author and journalist, Georgia Cassimatis, has released a book all about exploring the world of mental health.

GOCNSW Welfare Service to put a spotlight on cyber security awareness

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s (GOCNSW) Welfare Service has organised three Cyber Security Awareness education and training workshops.

Marriage of a Greek woman abroad: What to watch out for

It is during this registration process that numerous problems arise, which are not dealt with immediately but later on.

Athena Competition Greek winners show olive oil diversity

By Lisa Radinovsky from Greek Liquid Gold. At the 10th anniversary edition of the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition in Chania, Crete, Greece in May, 175 Greek olive oils...

Greece’s island communities face population crisis

The demographic decline in Greece is hitting its islands hard, with Lemnos and Agios Efstratios showing alarming signs of aging populations.

You May Also Like

Professor William Mallinson to examine Kissinger’s role in Cyprus

Renowned historian William Mallinson will present an online lecture on Henry Kissinger’s legacy, focusing on his impact in Cyprus.

Theatre at Lycabettus Hill to reopen after 15 years

The renowned Lycabettus Hill theatre in Athens, Greece will be ready for use by August 30 this year in time for a festival.

Greece’s parliament faces divide ahead of same-sex marriage vote

On Wednesday, February 14, a heated discussion took place in parliament in Athens regarding the same-sex marriage bill.