Many infections Threatens a large flu outbreak?

In some places there is a fear of a big flu epidemic
Across some regions of Germany, the flu epidemic is rolling much earlier this year than in previous years. However, according to experts, it has not yet been possible to say whether the season has just shifted or may be more difficult this time. The beginning of the norovirus season started earlier than usual.

Disease season launches this winter especially early
In some regions of Germany, such as in North Rhine-Westphalia, this year's flu epidemic started particularly early. Nevertheless, according to health experts, no statement can yet be made as to whether the season has only been postponed and will soon wane again, or whether in the end an increase in cases will be recorded. Norovirus, which causes severe vomiting, also rages very early this winter.

The flu epidemic started earlier this winter than in recent years, but according to health experts, it is currently not possible to say whether it will be more difficult. (Image: auremar / fotolia.com)

Rate of flu-like illness increased significantly
Experts from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) report on the web portal "FluWeb". that the estimated rate of people with a recent acute respiratory disease (ARE, with fever or without fever) in the 2nd calendar week (KW) (09.01. to 15.01.2017) has increased slightly compared to the previous week (6 , 7%, previous week: 6.3%).

"The rate of influenza-like illnesses (ILI, defined as ARE with fever) has increased significantly compared to the previous week (2.3%, 1.7% last week)," it continues.

The Working Group on Influenza (AGI) at the RKI writes: "According to the Infection Protection Act (IfSG), 3,742 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases have been transmitted to the RKI (data status 17.01.2017)." According to the definition of the AGI, the flu epidemic is in season 2016/17 started in the 51st KW 2016 and holds since then.

How strong the flu viruses will spread, according to experts is currently not in sight. The numbers vary enormously from year to year.

Difference between flu and simple cold
Because of the similar symptoms, patients are often not sure whether a flu or influenza infection is responsible for their symptoms. Not all of them go to the doctor and even there people with cold symptoms are not always tested for influenza.

Unlike the common cold, the flu is a weeks-long and contagious disease. It occurs quite suddenly and manifests itself among other things by high fever, joint and limb pain, chills, and headaches.

People from risk groups will be vaccinated
Whether a flu vaccine makes sense, but everyone must decide for themselves. According to the RKI, it can provide protection even at the beginning and in the course of the flu epidemic. Experts recommend people from risk groups to get vaccinated.

Seniors from the age of 60, pregnant women, the chronically ill, residents of retirement and care homes as well as medical staff will be advised by the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) to take flu shots. Ultimately, however, in the flu vaccine pros and cons weigh against each other. (Ad)