While the overall high number of new corona admissions in Austrian hospitals is decreasing slightly, there is a sharp increase in the number of flu cases. Experts are taking a tough stance on politics and the calls for better preparation are becoming louder.
The value of influenza hospital admissions has more than doubled, rising from 17 to 38 admissions in the last two full recorded calendar weeks, while the curve flattened slightly in the Covid area, the SARI dashboard showed.
Image: Covid and flu cases in hospitals
Christmas call
In connection with the coronavirus, there was recently talk of the highest wave in Austria since the start of wastewater analyses. However, this has now passed its peak, molecular biologist Ulrich Elling explained on Wednesday. At the same time, however, he urged caution: “There is still a lot of virus circulating and it is still very easy to get infected.” The expert recommended, especially before the Christmas celebrations, to reduce contacts in advance and take measures to carry out an antigen test before the gatherings.
The wastewater data showed that the Corona variant Pirola (BA.2.86) is dominant. The BA.2.86 daughter variant JN.1 is now likely to dominate. However, the relative increase in this variant, which was observed by WHO a day earlier, is unlikely to cause a second peak. “But it will probably slow the downward trend” – this is the “most likely scenario”.
Criticism of the lack of vaccination communication
Elling expressed the wish to politicians to prepare better for the next wave than for the current one: “If we are now sure that the wave has broken, preparation for the next wave starts today.” It applies, for example, to developing a strategy for how to increase vaccination rates for Covid – and also for flu – Elling asked. This year there was no vaccination communication at all. We also need to be better prepared when it comes to drug shortages – keyword Paxlovid. “It shouldn’t have happened that it ran out.” The medicines must remain sufficiently available in the future. In any case, this wave was no surprise. “Anyone who can think a little can see that.”
Corona and flu: warning against mixing
On Wednesday, infectiologist Christoph Wenisch from the Favoriten Clinic explained that the current corona wave could mix with the current flu wave. “This increases the risk of double infections, which can result in a particularly serious course,” Wenisch said in a press release from the Association of Vaccine Manufacturers. Caution is especially advised in older people or in those with previous illnesses. Wenisch also emphasized that the current infection situation is exemplary. “We are currently seeing the typical course of a flu season,” the report said. “If the outbreaks start in Northern and Western Europe, it won’t be long before they reach us too.”
Statistics are currently showing a strong increase, although levels are still low overall, for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). The number of hospital admissions increased to more than 66 percent from November 20 to December 3. A total of 30 people were hospitalized across Austria in week 48 due to RSV infection.
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.
