started · updated
Respiratory infections rise as autumn season begins
A seasonal rise in respiratory infections has been observed as autumn begins. Experts note that non-influenza viruses, such as rhinoviruses and parainfluenzavires, are currently circulating, as evidenced by wastewater monitoring. Factors contributing to the spread include the start of the school year and large-scale public events.
Health experts warn that while these infections are often mild, they can lead to hospitalizations for immunocompromised individuals. Following the current wave of common colds, epidemiologists expect subsequent waves of coronavirus and influenza as the season progresses toward the end of the year.
Regarding prevention, research from the German Nutrition Society (DGE) suggests a statistical link between Vitamin D levels and the risk of acute respiratory infections. While a low Vitamin D status is associated with a higher risk, experts emphasize that supplementation may offer a possible preventive effect rather than a guaranteed protection.
Entities
German Nutrition Society · German Standing Committee on Vaccination · Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research · Technical University of Munich