Flu cases are surging across germany, straining some hospitals as employees call out sick. The district clinics in Dillingen and Wertingen are currently treating 18 patients with confirmed influenza or COVID-19, according to nursing service manager Frech. The Donau-Ries district has been particularly hard hit by the recent flu wave, but Frech reports that the clinics have so far been able to manage the influx of patients. Currently, 15 COVID-19 and influenza patients are being cared for in Dillingen, with an additional three in Wertingen. Frech noted that this patient load isn’t unusual for this time of year.
January typically sees an increase in flu infections, likely due to increased social interaction during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Most patients are over the age of 30.Staff at the district clinics are adhering to strict hygiene protocols, with infected patients isolated in designated rooms marked with signage indicating the need for protective clothing. visitors are asked to contact staff before entering.
Dillinger Health Department: Flu Season Started Early
The flu season in the Northern Hemisphere generally runs from October 1st to May 31st.The Dillinger Health Department is closely monitoring illness reports. Spokeswoman Andrea Gärtner stated that the district office has received 110 laboratory-confirmed flu reports since the beginning of October. In comparison, only 21 reports were registered during the same period last flu season.
Despite the higher number of cases, officials say the current situation isn’t unusual. The flu wave in Germany began two to three weeks earlier this year than in previous years, but has not yet peaked. Fortunately, no deaths or severe cases of the flu have been reported this season.
The district office emphasizes that the annual flu vaccination remains the best protection against influenza. The vaccine’s composition is updated yearly to match circulating virus variants,though this year’s viral changes may result in shorter-lasting protection after vaccination.
If You Have the Flu, Stay Home
The Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) strongly recommends vaccination for individuals at higher risk of severe illness. The district office advises anyone experiencing flu symptoms to stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid contact with others. Fever-reducing medication can definitely help manage fever and pain, and regular ventilation of rooms is also recommended. If contact with others is unavoidable, wearing a mask is advised to protect those who are immunocompromised.
