AAccording to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), respiratory infections such as Covid-19 are currently spreading in Germany. “The infection pressure is now increasing significantly again in all age groups of the general population in autumn,” summarizes the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in its Covid 19 weekly report on Thursday evening. Various data sources are evaluated and estimates made.
In addition to Sars-CoV-2, rhinoviruses are currently among the predominant viruses that lead to visits to family doctors, for example. In the case of severe respiratory diseases – meaning hospital treatment – there has not yet been a significant increase, the RKI notes with a view to the past week.
RKI warns to protect vulnerable groups
Due to the time of year, according to the report, a further increase in such diseases must be expected in the near future. Older people are at greatest risk.
Because people are increasingly staying indoors again in autumn, the RKI reminds: “Regular correct ventilation (intermittent ventilation) with high air exchange and low heat loss” is very important to reduce the risk of infection. The background is that it is easier to get infected in closed rooms through droplets that sick people expel when sneezing or coughing.
In general, the RKI warned to continue to comply with the recommendations for avoiding infections in order to protect vulnerable groups. This also includes staying at home with a cold, cough or sore throat for a few days until there is a significant improvement and avoiding contacts.
