© dpa
Respiratory diseases are still on the rise among people in Berlin.
The State Office for Health and Social Affairs (Lageso) reported a significant increase in reported cases of influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) in its report on infections for the past week on Thursday. As expected for the time of year, the rising trend has continued, it said. The Berlin Corona situation report (as of 12 December) also shows a steeply rising curve of confirmed virus detections.
According to the Lageso report, the number of laboratory-confirmed flu cases in the capital has more than tripled compared to the previous week, but is still at a relatively low level of just over 120. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the flu epidemic has not yet begun. In the case of RSV - a wave that is already underway according to the RKI - the Lageso reports an almost doubling of the number of cases compared to the previous week to 65. Children up to the age of two were mainly affected.
Many staff are also absent at Charité University Hospital: "We are currently experiencing a further increase in sick leave among medical and nursing staff," a spokesperson said in response to an enquiry. Nevertheless, patient care is guaranteed, but in individual areas, postponed appointments or longer waiting times are to be expected. Patients were asked for their understanding. "We are also currently urging all visitors to wear a mask in the Charité clinics to avoid the possible spread of infection," it said. In Berlin, public transport companies (BVG) have also reported a significant increase in sickness rates.