Just before the fifth season, measles broke out in Cologne. The health department is warning the population to be careful about the aggressive virus.
Cologne – Measles is making the rounds in Cologne. According to an announcement from the local health department, more cases have already been registered in 2024 than is usual in an entire year. Worrying news given this highly contagious disease. This is particularly worrying during the carnival days, when thousands of people will gather in the Rhine metropolis to celebrate. A British authority is also concerned about the numbers.
Measles cases increase during carnival time
The danger of the disease should not be underestimated. The health department warns: “In children under five years of age (and adults over 20 years of age), measles can lead to serious complications.” In individual cases, this could even lead to brain and pneumonia. Any contact between a non-immunized person and a sick person almost inevitably leads to infection. The virus is transmitted through infectious droplets when speaking, coughing and sneezing.
Known symptoms only become visible after a few days
The Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) therefore urgently recommends vaccination against the aggressive virus. Vaccination is recommended for all adults born after 1970. In children, two vaccinations are necessary for effective protection.
The first signs of the disease can be cough, runny nose and high fever. Inflammation can also occur in the neck and throat area and in the connective tissue of the eyes. The typical symptoms, such as the rash that spreads from the face and ears over the entire body, usually only appear a few days later.
Measles cases are increasing, especially in the south of Cologne
According to the health department, a total of eight confirmed cases and two suspected cases were reported in Cologne in 2024 (as of February 7th). Most of these occurred in the south of the city. Measles is subject to mandatory reporting. Meanwhile, researchers discovered a method to stop the virus. (pkb)
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