As Germany heads into the heart of the holiday season, a surge in respiratory illnesses is being reported across the country.Data from the medical on-call service shows fever is currently the most common complaint, with nearly 12,000 cases reported last week, alongside a significant 111.7% increase in cough-related calls. Health officials attribute this rise too typical winter conditions and increased indoor gatherings,but emphasize understanding how the body responds to illness is key to appropriate care and reassurance.
- Fever was most prevalent during calendar week 51, with 11,935 reported cases
- Cough cases have increased by 111.7%
- Itching has decreased by 6.9%
Fever is currently the most frequently reported symptom, particularly among children. The AOK explains that fever is often a normal immune response to infection: the body raises its “temperature setting” to better fight off viruses and bacteria. Understanding how the body responds to illness is crucial for appropriate care and reassurance.
Children are exposed to many new pathogens, especially in daycare and school settings; typical childhood illnesses and respiratory infections almost always involve fever. As a result, fever rates are particularly high during this time of year, often indicating that a child’s immune system is actively working, and not necessarily a sign of a more serious condition.
Fever Currently the Most Common Illness in Germany
Fever is the most frequently reported complaint to the medical on-call service of the Patient Service 116 117 for calendar week 51. The symptom was reported a total of 11,935 times. Across Germany, 9.7 percent of callers reported having a fever.
Symptoms Update: Itching Declining – Cough Cases Surge
Itching is currently showing the most significant decline. Compared to the previous month, the number of reports fell by 6.9% from 1,133 to 1,055 cases.
In contrast, the prevalence of cough has increased significantly. Reports of the symptom rose by a substantial 111.7%. A total of 8,090 calls regarding cough were registered during calendar week 50, compared to just 3,821 in the preceding week. This sharp increase highlights the spread of respiratory illness during the colder months.
The AOK attributes the increase during the holiday season primarily to winter conditions: cold weather weakens the immune system, dry heating air irritates the mucous membranes, and low humidity causes them to dry out, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to “attach.” Simultaneously, people are spending more time indoors and in close proximity to others, which benefits the spread of pathogens.
Adding to this is the typical Advent effect: more family visits, celebrations, crowded stores, and travel on buses and trains – often in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces. Respiratory infections are particularly easily transmitted via droplets and aerosols produced when speaking, coughing, or breathing; the poorer the air exchange, the more likely infectious particles are to accumulate in the air. Adequate ventilation significantly reduces this burden.
Get Well Quickly Before the Holidays
To recover as quickly as possible before the holidays, focus on the basics: rest and sleep, drink plenty of fluids (water, tea), humidify the air** or inhale steam (carefully, to avoid burns), and drink lukewarm tea or honey in warm beverages for a sore throat (not for children under 1 year) – this can soothe coughs and scratchiness. If you can tolerate them and there are no contraindications, paracetamol or ibuprofen can be considered for pain or fever, following package instructions. However, if you experience shortness of breath, severe chest pain, high fever for several days, or worsening symptoms (or belong to a risk group), you should seek medical attention to rule out a more serious condition.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor or the Patient Service at 116 117 if you have concerns. They also offer help with symptoms related to stress, anxiety, or depression. The Telephone Counseling Service is available around the clock, free of charge and anonymously at 0800 / 111 0 111 and 0800 / 111 0 222.
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