New COVID Variant, Dubbed ”Frankenstein,” Driving Current Rise in Respiratory Illnesses, RKI reports
Berlin – A newly circulating COVID-19 variant, informally dubbed “Frankenstein” due to its composite genetic makeup, is contributing to a recent increase in respiratory illnesses across Germany, according to the latest report from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). While the variant appears more contagious than previously dominant strains, health officials emphasize it does not currently pose a greater risk of severe illness.
The uptick in cases, though noticeable, remains significantly lower than levels observed in previous years. Approximately 11,570 cases were recorded in mid-October 2024, nearly double the current number, but a fraction of the figures seen during the height of the pandemic. For comparison, over 7,000 new infections were reported in a single day in mid-October 2020, with numbers exceeding 19,000 on a single day later that month. This current rise occurs as overall acute respiratory disease activity is assessed as moderate by the RKI, and has even decreased slightly compared to the previous week.
The RKI estimates around 7,800 cases of acute respiratory illness per 100,000 inhabitants based on voluntary reporting, totaling approximately 6.5 million cases – a decrease from the 7.4 million reported in mid-October 2024. Currently, rhinoviruses, responsible for common colds, alongside COVID-19 and parainfluenza viruses – especially affecting young children – are the most prevalent circulating pathogens. The number of severe cases remains comparatively low.
Influenza activity is currently minimal, with around 400 lab-confirmed cases reported to the RKI for the week of October 6th. Typically, Germany’s annual flu season begins in January and lasts for three to four months, characterized by increased activity of influenza A and B viruses.The RKI continues to monitor these trends to inform public health recommendations and preparedness efforts.
