Peak of Influenza Season Reached in Germany
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the peak of the influenza season in Germany has been reached. The number of reported cases remained relatively stable in the week of February 10-16 compared to the previous week, as stated in a recent report on acute respiratory tract infections. However, the level of cases remains high.
An estimated 7.5 million people in Germany are currently suffering from an acute respiratory tract infection, many of whom have influenza. "Influenza is being reported in all age groups," according to the RKI.
The number of people requiring hospitalization due to an acute respiratory infection has decreased in most age groups. Over one-third of those affected were hospitalized with a severe influenza infection. Among school children, there has also been an overall decline, although the number of severe cases remains at a high level.
"If a child has difficulty breathing, is not eating enough, has a fever that does not go down after several days, or if their general condition worsens, they should definitely see a doctor," advised Tobias Tenenbaum, chairman of the German Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases.
The RKI recommends that individuals with symptoms of an acute respiratory infection stay home for three to five days or until their symptoms have significantly improved. During this time, direct contact with others should be avoided, especially those at higher risk for severe illness, such as the elderly. "People with acute respiratory symptoms should wear a mask to protect others."
The RKI also recommends that people who wish to protect themselves from infection wear a mask indoors. Vaccinations against COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and pneumococcus should be taken according to the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO).
Influenza Season Passes Its Peak, but Cases Remain High
Influenza season in Germany has reached its peak, with the number of reported cases remaining stable in the latest reporting period. However, the level of cases continues to be high, indicating that the virus is still circulating widely.
The RKI estimates that approximately 7.5 million people in Germany are currently suffering from an acute respiratory tract infection, many of whom have influenza. While the number of hospitalizations due to acute respiratory infections has declined in most age groups, over one-third of those hospitalized were cases of severe influenza.
Protecting Yourself and Others
To protect themselves and others, the RKI recommends that individuals with symptoms of an acute respiratory infection stay home for three to five days or until their symptoms have significantly improved. During this time, direct contact with others should be avoided, especially those at higher risk for severe illness, such as the elderly.
Wearing a mask is also advised for people with acute respiratory symptoms to protect others. Additionally, wearing a mask indoors is recommended for those who wish to protect themselves from infection.
Vaccination Importance
According to the RKI, vaccinations against COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and pneumococcus should be taken according to the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO). These vaccines can help protect individuals from severe illness and complications associated with these respiratory viruses.
