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Corona traces are increasing again in wastewater. There is no need to be concerned, but some measures make sense.
Putting on a protective mask, practicing contactless greeting rituals or getting tested – that will probably have been a long time ago for many people. Yes, the coronavirus has not really disappeared. The number of laboratory-confirmed Covid cases has been increasing since late summer. But they don’t come close to last year’s level.
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The deputy director of the BAG, Linda Nartey, confirms that the number of Corona cases is now increasing and that individual cases of flu can already be seen. But she isn’t worried about that. “We assume that the number of cases will increase in the winter. “But we also expect that the health system will be able to cope with the number of cases.”
Tanja Stadler, who advises the federal government on Covid, says: “We are observing a very strong viral circulation of Sars-Cov-2 and other viruses in wastewater.”
Of course, that also means: “The number of unreported cases is very high.” This is not surprising, since tests are no longer reimbursed and therefore far fewer people are being tested.
Only those at risk should be tested
However, she emphasizes that testing only makes sense for groups at risk because it allows for more targeted treatment. Everyone else should just stay at home if they have symptoms. Just like the normal flu is handled. Apart from the long-term consequences, the flu and Corona are comparable.
None of these viruses should be underestimated.
“In fact, Sars-Cov-2 is now another virus in this arsenal of respiratory viruses,” explains Stadler. And adds: “But none of these viruses should be underestimated.” The hospitals were challenged by influenza every year – even before the pandemic. “Now it’s just becoming even more challenging because we have another virus.”
Masks could become relevant again
In order to continue to keep the number of cases and hospitalizations low, the Federal Office of Public Health is once again proposing the well-known recommendations for action. The pandemic may be a few years ago now, but the population has collectively undergone intensive training. Linda Nartey explains: “We can apply the measures that we have all learned again.” This means: washing your hands, wearing a mask, staying at home if you have symptoms and getting vaccinated if you are particularly at risk.
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Masks could make a bit of a comeback this winter.
Keystone/ALESSANDRO DELLA VALLE
Like the flu vaccination, this can be repeated annually. Wearing a mask is particularly effective and easy to use. “What we now know is that masks are very useful in protecting yourself from infection,” says Tanja Stadler. That means: Wear a mask when it’s crowded and you meet a lot of people. This is for your own protection, but also to protect others – especially people who are particularly at risk.
Today you really stand out when you wear a mask. However, in winter there could be more of a street scene again.