In the weekly report released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in June 2023, the epidemiological situation of COVID-19 in Germany is assessed. The report presents data from various surveillance systems and provides an overview of the number of cases, severity, geographical distribution, vaccination rates, and testing statistics. This article aims to summarize the key findings and trends highlighted in the report.

Key Findings:

Epidemiological Situation:

• The data from various surveillance systems indicate a declining trend in COVID-19 cases and a decrease in severe illness.
• Approximately 4.0 million individuals in Germany experienced acute respiratory infections in calendar week 22/2023, with a stable acute respiratory infection rate compared to the previous week.
• The number of doctor visits for acute respiratory infections significantly decreased in calendar week 22/2023 compared to the previous week, with approximately 580,000 consultations reported.
• Different respiratory viruses, primarily rhinoviruses, are causing acute respiratory infections leading to doctor visits in the outpatient setting.
• The number of severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases has continued to decline, reaching a low level in calendar week 22/2023.
• An estimated 75,000 individuals had symptomatic COVID-19 with acute respiratory symptoms in calendar week 22/2023, and about 16,000 doctor consultations were specifically attributed to COVID-19.

Geographical Distribution:

• In all regions, the 7-day incidence of reported COVID-19 cases remained below 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in calendar week 22/2023.

Hospitalizations:

• The incidence of hospitalizations due to severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) caused by COVID-19 (COVID-SARI) is currently at 0.5/100,000 inhabitants, with approximately 400 new hospital admissions for COVID-SARI in calendar week 22/2023.
• The number of COVID-19 patients being treated in intensive care units has decreased compared to the previous week.

Vaccination and Testing:

• Detailed information regarding vaccination rates and testing statistics is not provided in the summary.

The June 2023 weekly report from the RKI indicates a favorable epidemiological situation regarding COVID-19 in Germany. The data suggests a declining trend in cases and severity, with a decrease in doctor visits for acute respiratory infections and hospitalizations related to COVID-19. These findings reflect the effectiveness of mitigation measures, including vaccinations and adherence to preventive measures. However, it is essential to continue monitoring and adapting public health strategies to ensure the ongoing control and containment of COVID-19 in Germany.

Image by Gerd Altmann