A German virologist has announced his expectations for a surge in COVID-19 infections over the coming months, following only a slight increase so far this autumn. Oliver Klepfer, head of the Department of Virology at Ludwig-Maximilians University in Munich, stated in remarks on Sunday: "We must assume that cases of infection will decrease in the remaining part of autumn and throughout winter."
However, the German virologist did not recommend tightening COVID-19 measures, saying: "Essentially, at this stage of the pandemic, we need to try easing measures in various areas to see what is well accepted and to identify where continued adherence to hygiene and healthcare measures or testing for the virus is necessary for safety."
Klepfer added: "Overall, we have a good vaccination rate—which is the fundamental basis—we have many recoveries, a high-efficiency testing infrastructure, and a good understanding of how the virus spreads."
Contrary to some concerns, the virologist stated that he does not expect Germany to face a significant influenza wave alongside COVID-19 this winter, saying: "I do not anticipate a severe flu season," noting that influenza viruses have been mitigated worldwide by healthcare measures implemented against COVID-19. He emphasized that this winter should continue to focus on the novel coronavirus.
