Even if Corona were to turn into an endemic: the virus should not be underestimated, according to the warning of the experts of the Gecko advisory committee. Certainly in combination with other infections (such as the current massive flu wave that Austria has under control), this could also lead to “massive restrictions” in the future, especially with regard to hospitals – and may also necessitate local measures.
The authors write in a report published on Thursday that the trend continues and that “personnel-related restrictions” cannot be ruled out. The current flu wave, in combination with other respiratory infections, could soon lead to more patients in normal and intensive care units.
Essentially, the report states that even though it is endemic, Corona will cause problems simply because there will be a higher burden of disease worldwide. In addition, Long Covid will affect general well-being and ability to earn a living and drive up healthcare costs.
Epidemiologist Eva Schernhammer defines an endemic disease as follows: “when the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infections remains relatively steady or becomes ‘predictable’, as is the case with influenza, for example, since the wave-like seasonal event can be anticipated relatively well”. . Currently, available indicators suggest that we could be approaching an endemic phase.
Malaria is also endemic – but just as dangerous
Schernhammer warns that when a disease becomes endemic, it doesn’t necessarily mean a positive development: “Malaria, for example, is endemic at certain latitudes. However, that does not make malaria any less dangerous.”
Gecko continues to see vaccination as an effective remedy against corona, which also shows its benefits in children. Bivalent vaccines, the administration of which – similar to the flu – once a year could be sufficient.
Vaccination fatigue, skepticism, misjudgments
However, since the summer of 2022, public fatigue has been growing about the pandemic and about vaccinations. This applies more to women, young people, the recovered and people with a lower socio-economic status. The reasons for the development are skepticism about the effectiveness of the vaccination and fear of side effects, as well as the assessment that the omicron variant is less risky.
Regionally, drug use against Covid is still uneven. Almost 53 percent of all dispensed medicines were prescribed in Vienna. After all, the share has decreased somewhat, so that the other states are now also more dependent on medicines to treat corona disease.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
