Red alarm level: Hessen fights for growing pneumonia wave!

Red alarm level: Hessen fights for growing pneumonia wave!

The healthcare system is faced with a worrying wave of pneumonia in Germany, especially in Hesse. Doctors like Dr. Martin Ebel from Bad Hersfeld warn of the steep increase in severe respiratory infections caused by mycoplasms and chlamydia. These bacteria can have devastating effects on health and often require special medical attention.

mycoplasms, which were first observed in 1938, are unique bacteria without cell wall and therefore resistant to the often used active ingredient penicillin. They are able to trigger infections of the lungs, urinary tract and genital tract and can cause atypical pneumonia. According to the Tagesschau , an infection is generally mild, but serious cases can occur. These bacteria spread primarily through coughing and sneezing, which increases their risk of infection.

Current developments and effects

The number of pneumonia has in the practice of Dr. EBEL in the winter quarter doubles to 40 to 50 cases. December was particularly critical, in which 15 to 20 patients had to be admitted to the clinic. Many infected faith wrongly to suffer only from a lengthy cold, which leads to a delay in diagnosis. This can have fatal consequences, since the pathogens can also affect other organs.

The incubation period for mycoplasms is two to four weeks, and the symptoms often resemble those of ordinary colds: cough, fatigue, fever and sore throat. Diarrhea and vomiting can also occur in younger patients. The course is often creeping and is not recognized immediately, which makes early treatment difficult.

prevention and treatment

Treatment is possible with a limited selection of antibiotics such as azithromycin and doxycycline, but many common antibiotics are not effective against mycoplasms. Dr. EBEL indicates that there are no vaccinations against these pathogens, although there is a pneumococcal vaccination that can protect against more frequent pneumonia causes. It is also emphasized that the increase in respiratory diseases may be a result of corona pandemic.

Social isolation during pandemic may have weakened the immune response of many people. To counteract this, Dr. EBEL preventive measures such as regular hand washing, hygiene, keeping distance and wearing masks. A balanced diet, regular movement in the fresh air and taking vitamin C can also help strengthen the immune system.

It should be emphasized that up to 40 % of people who have close contact with an infected person can be infected. Mycoplasms can be present in the nasal throat space of healthy people without showing symptoms and thus transmitted silently. For this reason, increased vigilance in the current situation is necessary.

The increasing number of infections is alarming, and both medical specialist and the public are called up to take the corresponding precautions to prevent the spread of these stubborn bacteria.