Top virologist warns of a possible second coronavirus wave in Germany
Virologist Christian Drosten fears there could be a second coronavirus wave in Germany if strong action is not taken to combat the spread.
In his NDR podcast, Drosten, a world-leading expert on coronaviruses, said he was concerned that outbreaks, such as that in North Rhine-Westphalia at a meat plant, and elsewhere will lead to the further spread of the virus in the population.
Stopping the virus from spreading widely is now the crucial factor, the Charité scientist said.
In general, he said, there are currently clear signs in several places, including Berlin, that Sars-CoV-2 is coming back. In the virologist's view, great caution is required to prevent a second wave from developing.
Drosten referred to the southern states of the US, where a "terrible situation" is developing. There, he said, restrictions had been eased too early.
"I am not optimistic that in a month's time we will still have such a peaceful situation as we have now in terms of epidemic activity," said Drosten regarding the situation in Germany.
"In two months, I think we're going to have a problem if we don't turn on all the alarm sensors again now." He said the population had to realise that health authorities needed support and people needed to stick to social distancing and hygiene rules.
The podcast featuring Drosten will now go on a summer recess until the end of August, the presenter announced. In the meantime, the podcast channel will feature other scientists talking about coronavirus.
Comments (2)
See Also
In his NDR podcast, Drosten, a world-leading expert on coronaviruses, said he was concerned that outbreaks, such as that in North Rhine-Westphalia at a meat plant, and elsewhere will lead to the further spread of the virus in the population.
Stopping the virus from spreading widely is now the crucial factor, the Charité scientist said.
In general, he said, there are currently clear signs in several places, including Berlin, that Sars-CoV-2 is coming back. In the virologist's view, great caution is required to prevent a second wave from developing.
Drosten referred to the southern states of the US, where a "terrible situation" is developing. There, he said, restrictions had been eased too early.
"I am not optimistic that in a month's time we will still have such a peaceful situation as we have now in terms of epidemic activity," said Drosten regarding the situation in Germany.
"In two months, I think we're going to have a problem if we don't turn on all the alarm sensors again now." He said the population had to realise that health authorities needed support and people needed to stick to social distancing and hygiene rules.
The podcast featuring Drosten will now go on a summer recess until the end of August, the presenter announced. In the meantime, the podcast channel will feature other scientists talking about coronavirus.
Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at [email protected].
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.
Please log in here to leave a comment.