Horror infection in Hamburg: Haemophilus outbreak claims fatalities!

Horror infection in Hamburg: Haemophilus outbreak claims fatalities!

A worrying wave of infections with the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacterium has broken out in Hamburg. So far, 16 cases have been registered, of which three people have tragically died. This bacterial infection poses a great danger, especially for drug users and the homeless Mercury reported. Many of those affected require intensive medical care, which underlines the drama of the outbreak.

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has made it clear that healthy people generally do not have to worry, but transmission occurs through droplet infection, for example when coughing or sneezing, and possibly also through common objects such as cigarettes or cutlery. Drug users are at higher risk because their health is often already weakened. *“Consumption-conscious people should be more careful not to share drug paraphernalia or eating utensils,”* the recommendations say.

Causes and Symptoms of Hib Infection

Hib infection can range from mild respiratory infections to serious illnesses such as pneumonia or meningitis. Unvaccinated children under five and adults with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Loud Pharmacy look around The outbreak of Hib disease is a serious matter, and those affected sometimes have to expect purulent meninges or severe sepsis.

Children and adults can be colonized with the Hib bacteria without showing symptoms, making the outbreak particularly insidious. The vaccination rate among school starters has been relatively high since 1990 due to standard vaccination: 91.4% in 2018. However, unvaccinated people are at increased risk, while the majority of severe Hib infections cannot be traced back to the Hib type, which is seen as a success of the vaccination campaigns.

Protective measures and vaccination recommendations

In view of the increasing number of cases, the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) is already discussing adjustments to the vaccination recommendations. Vaccination Academy points out that Hib vaccination is already established in infants and young children. Nevertheless, risk groups, especially adults with certain immune deficiencies, could benefit from additional vaccination recommendations.

In addition, measles cases are increasing worldwide, creating an additional risk of diseases that could have been prevented by other vaccinations. In this sense, education and prevention are central to protecting the population from dangerous infections.

In summary, a close eye on the development of the Hib outbreak in Hamburg is required, not only for those directly affected, but also for everyone living in a larger health security context.