EHEC outbreak in Berlin: case numbers rise dramatically to 127!

EHEC outbreak in Berlin: case numbers rise dramatically to 127!

Berlin.Dramatic increase in EHEC cases: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) is already reporting 127 infections by mid-October - and that's just the beginning!

The numbers are alarming! In 2023, the number of cases of the dreaded intestinal disease EHEC rose sharply and far exceeded the values ​​of previous years. There were only 98 cases in the entire year of 2022, and as many as 94 in the pre-Corona year of 2019. But now the situation is serious: one sick person has already died. The shocking nature of this disease is not just reflected in the numbers. There was even a major outbreak in July, with 15 people becoming ill in a single week! Particularly affected: The Neukölln district with 11 reported infections. What's behind it?

A seminar and its consequences

The cause is likely to be a seminar that took place in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania at the end of June, in which around 130 people took part. A spokesman for the Senate Department of Health explained that the outbreak could probably be seen in connection with this event. Further cases have also appeared in other federal states. In 2011, Germany experienced the largest EHEC outbreak in history with 4,000 cases and 53 deaths. Could it be the start of a new health crisis?

But what exactly is EHEC? The “enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli” should not be underestimated! They produce highly dangerous toxins that can lead to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even life-threatening complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). People often become infected through contaminated food, especially meat products. The decisive weapon against EHEC is high temperatures when cooking: at least 70 degrees for at least 10 minutes are required to eliminate the pathogens.

While the city and health officials are on guard, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop. We'll keep you updated on the latest developments!