The carnival stronghold of Cologne has recorded a measles outbreak: According to the local health department, more cases have already been registered in 2024 than is normally the case within a year. Concern grows, especially during the carnival days, as thousands of people will be marching through the streets of Cologne by Rose Monday at the latest.
The first signs of measles can be cough, runny nose and high fever. Inflammation in the neck and throat area as well as in the connective tissue of the eyes is also possible. Typical symptoms such as the rash that spreads from the face and ears to the body do not appear until days later.
As of February 7th, the Cologne City Health Department reported eight confirmed cases and two suspected cases. The south of the city was most affected.