Overview

• Family practices report fuller waiting rooms for about five weeks, according to Sandra Blumenthal of the regional GPs’ association.
• Berlin’s state health office reports a recent increase in SARS-CoV-2 viral load in wastewater, with reported COVID-19 cases also rising in Berlin and Brandenburg.
• Less frequent and less systematic testing makes it difficult for clinicians to confirm which respiratory infections are COVID-19 versus other viruses.
• Roughly one in six patients presents with flu-like illness and fever, and overall respiratory activity aligns with previous autumn seasons.
• The flu vaccination window runs from October to mid-December, with many pharmacies offering both flu and COVID-19 shots and a nationwide Long Night of Vaccinations on October 8.