First the good news: According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), there is currently no evidence that the more common subtypes of Omicron cause more severe disease than earlier variants.
However, a certain concern can be heard from ECDC’s most recent analysis of the current corona situation. That’s because more older people are now reinfected with the virus — and they’re getting sick more often. According to the ECDC, the models indicate that not only the number of cases but also the number of corona deaths will increase in the next few weeks.
“We must act now”
According to the EU authority, people over the age of 60 are particularly at risk. ECDC and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) adjusted their vaccine recommendations last week. They advise that not only the over-80s, but also those aged 60 to 79 and those with pre-existing conditions should now get a second booster as soon as possible. In countries where at least 40 percent of the population is vaccinated, this could significantly increase protection against hospitalization in this population group throughout the year. Calculations showed that.
“The number of infections is rising again across the EU, and with them we are observing an increase in severe cases, hospital admissions, intensive care occupations and deaths,” said EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyrakides (66). “We need to act now and increase measures to improve safety in relation to autumn and winter tides.”
The central government follows the previous strategy
In Switzerland, 44 percent of the population is simply raised. A second booster vaccine is available free of charge only for those above 80 years of age until further notice. And the central government has no plans to change anything.
According to the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG), the assessment of the situation has not changed since the most recent adjustment of the vaccine recommendation in early July. “The risk of serious illness is significantly higher in people over 80 than in younger people, and a greater burden on the health system is not expected,” a spokesperson said in response to the request. Further booster vaccination for other target groups is currently rated as “not working”.
Christoph Berger (60), head of the Federal Vaccination Commission (EKIF), said there was no reason to go by the books because of the adjusted EU recommendation. “Another booster vaccine for other target groups is not currently recommended,” he notes. He points out that the epidemiological situation varies from country to country and recommendations should be tailored accordingly.
In neighboring countries, people are getting vaccinated earlier
From the point of view of EU officials, the point is clear: if people over 60 start using boosters again, the better. Some of them have already got the fourth spade free in neighboring countries. For example, France and Italy recommend a second booster vaccination from age 60, while in Austria the age limit is 65. In Germany, people over 70 are currently vaccinated.
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