About 200 corona patients are currently being treated in Austrian hospitals. Cases are increasing, albeit at a much lower level than at the height of the pandemic. Health Minister Johannes Rauch (Greens) tried to reassure on Monday: “Austria is well prepared for the Corona autumn.”
“We have a better overview today than a year ago,” Health Minister Johannes Rauch emphasized at a press conference on Monday. The number of Covid-19 patients in hospitals has risen slightly in recent weeks, but the number with other respiratory diseases has actually fallen, it was said.
The majority of patients are over 70 years old
According to the SARI dashboard, which shows hospital admissions with serious respiratory infections in Austria, the majority of patients are between 70 and 80 years old. Most cases are currently treated as inpatients in Salzburg and Tyrol.
“Overall, the number of people with respiratory illnesses in hospitals is lower today than in May,” Rauch said. “The number of infections will certainly increase in the autumn and winter, but I do not expect the hospitals to be overwhelmed.”
Minister of Health advises vaccination
Nevertheless, the Minister of Health advised people at increased risk to be vaccinated in a timely manner. In the autumn you can be vaccinated against both the flu and the coronavirus by your GP; the flu vaccination is also recommended for infants and small children. The corona vaccination is also free. This year, the flu vaccination is available throughout Austria for the first time for a fee of seven euros.
“Both vaccinations are especially important for the elderly and people with previous illnesses. Both provide a high level of protection against serious diseases. The corona vaccination also reduces the risk of contracting Long Covid,” emphasized the Director General of Health, Katharina Reich.
Corona tests remain free
Corona tests are available free of charge from general practitioners for people with complaints, and corona medicines will also continue to be provided free of charge. The minister and Reich also reminded people of hygiene rules such as washing hands – and, if necessary, wearing a mask.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
