The influenza wave has swept through the entire Vorpommern‑Greifswald district. After a surge at the Asklepios Klinik Pasewalk at the start of the week, the Ameos hospitals in Anklam and Ueckermünde are now reporting a noticeable rise in flu patients as well [asklepios.com].
Why it matters
According to Ameos spokesperson Felix Naundorf, the current season is already seeing “significantly more patients” than the previous winter, while Dr. Dirk Werner, chief physician of internal medicine in Anklam, warns that the infection level is “high for the season” [asklepios.com].
Older adults and people with chronic lung or cardiovascular diseases are especially vulnerable. The dominant strain is Influenza A, presenting classic symptoms such as breathing difficulties, fever, fatigue and cough. Severe cases usually arise when pre‑existing conditions are present [asklepios.com].
Unusual for this wave are frequent reports of nausea and vomiting, a symptom highlighted by hygiene specialist Dominic Stuth [asklepios.com].
Vaccination is strongly advised for anyone over 60, those with chronic illnesses and medical staff, as it reduces the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation and complications [asklepios.com].
At the Pasewalk hospital, Dr. Bernd Müllejans notes a “higher double‑digit” number of flu patients this year, with hospital stays ranging from three to five days depending on severity [asklepios.com].
The circulating virus is identified as Influenza A subtype H2N3, a highly infectious strain affecting children, adolescents and seniors over 65 [asklepios.com].
What may happen next
If the upward trend continues, hospitals could see a further increase in double‑digit patient numbers, potentially stretching bed capacity and staff resources. A continued shortage of vaccine doses may make it harder for unvaccinated residents to obtain protection, especially as only a few practices still hold supplies [asklepios.com].
Should the infection rate start to decline, as suggested by Dr. Müllejans, routine preventive measures—free masks at reception, hand‑disinfection stations and public hygiene signage—will likely remain in place to curb any resurgence [asklepios.com].
Senior homes, which have largely avoided outbreaks so far, may need to maintain strict visitor protocols and hygiene rules to stay protected, especially if community transmission persists [asklepios.com].
Frequently Asked Questions
How many influenza cases have been reported in the district so far?
The health office of Vorpommern‑Greifswald has recorded 1 296 flu cases from the start of the year up to Wednesday afternoon [asklepios.com].
What symptoms are most commonly observed?
Patients typically present with breathing difficulties, fever, fatigue and cough. In this season, nausea and vomiting have also been reported more frequently [asklepios.com].
What preventive measures are being taken in the hospitals and senior homes?
Hospitals distribute free masks at reception, provide hand‑disinfection stations and display signage with hygiene rules. Senior homes enforce hand‑disinfection, physical distancing, and in some cases ask visitors to forego hugs and kisses. Vaccination is strongly recommended for seniors, chronically ill individuals and medical personnel [asklepios.com].
How might the evolving flu situation influence daily life in Vorpommern‑Greifswald in the coming weeks?
