2023-10-19 20:46:04
Virus Alert in Munich: Colds, Flu, and Corona Cases on the Rise
By Nina Bautz and Andrea Stinglwagner | October 19, 2023, 8:46 p.m
Munich is currently experiencing a wave of colds, flu, and corona cases as the temperature drops and the chilly autumn weather sets in. The city’s doctors’ waiting rooms are full, and the number of corona patients in intensive care units is on the rise, according to the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety (LGL).
Prof. Jörg Schelling, a Munich family doctor, predicts that more residents will fall ill due to the lower temperatures. He recommends wearing masks, especially for older or immunocompromised individuals, or for everyone in doctor’s offices. However, making masks mandatory is considered unenforceable and unnecessary.
To combat the upcoming virus winter, Munich clinics recommend several precautions. First and foremost, they advise getting a flu vaccination. Last year, there was a strong wave of influenza, and this year is expected to be no different. The Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) recommends annual flu vaccinations for pregnant women, people over 60 years of age, medical staff, people with underlying illnesses, and individuals with a lot of contact with others. Healthy children and young people are also encouraged to get vaccinated. The ideal time for vaccination is from now until mid-December. It’s important to note that flu vaccines need to be updated every year to cover the latest strains.
In addition to flu vaccinations, Munich clinics advise residents to consider corona vaccinations. Stiko recommends booster vaccinations for people aged 60 and above, those with previous illnesses, and medical and nursing staff. It is now possible to receive a Covid-19 and influenza vaccine at the same time.
Furthermore, older individuals and those with underlying illnesses are also encouraged to get vaccinated against pneumococci and whooping cough. Although there are two vaccines available for the RS virus, which can affect infants, small children, and the elderly, they are not yet recommended by Stiko due to the associated costs.
To prevent the spread of respiratory infections, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) advises individuals with symptoms to stay at home for three to five days or until significant improvement is observed. Indoor rooms should be regularly ventilated to minimize the risk of transmission.
In terms of testing, some virologists suggest that tests stored at room temperature could still be used two to three months past their expiry date. However, the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally discourages the use of expired tests due to potential component deterioration.
For accurate diagnostics, many doctor’s offices offer tests that can determine the specific virus causing respiratory illnesses. The former Corona testing center of the Sonnen-Gesundheitszentrum in Munich, for instance, conducts PCR tests to detect corona, influenza, and RS viruses. These tests are free for insured individuals with symptoms.
In terms of prevention, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and exposure to fresh air can strengthen the immune system. Prof. Jörg Schilling also recommends taking vitamin D tablets during the dark season, while zinc tablets have been scientifically proven to help with the onset of infections.
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Sources:
– Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety (LGL)
– Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko)
– Robert Koch Institute (RKI)
– American Food and Drug Administration (FDA)]
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