Federal government relies on "Covid-19 + endemic strategy"
Further waves of infection with the coronavirus or other respiratory viruses cannot be ruled out, according to the federal government. The Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA) wants to help protect particularly vulnerable people with the "Covid-19 + endemic strategy". It could also prevent the healthcare system from being overloaded.
The Covid-19 pandemic is over, but the virus is still circulating in the population, according to a press release from the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). It could still lead to waves of infection and, in particular, to serious illness in older people and people with certain pre-existing conditions. This could put a strain on the healthcare system, especially if there are also many cases of flu or other respiratory infections in the fall/winter.
The guidelines drawn up by the FOPH "Covid-19+ endemic strategy" The aim is to provide the best possible protection for the health of particularly vulnerable people and prevent the healthcare system from being overburdened. According to the FOPH, the strategy focuses on three areas of action: surveillance, prevention and infection control.
Monitoring the epidemiological situation
Broad monitoring of virus circulation enables an ongoing assessment of the epidemiological situation of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses. Data from various monitoring systems is analyzed for this purpose. These include wastewater monitoring, the Sentinella GP system and the mandatory reporting system for infectious diseases. According to the FOPH, any change in the epidemiological situation and thus a potential threat to public health can be detected at an early stage.
Prevention
According to the FOPH, vaccination is the most important preventive measure. Access to the Covid vaccination must be ensured, especially for people who are particularly at risk. The population should also be informed about the measures they can take to protect themselves in everyday life, in particular by airing their rooms regularly, washing their hands or wearing a mask.
Infection control in retirement and nursing homes
As already mentioned, efficient infection prevention is intended to protect particularly vulnerable people. Recommendations for retirement and nursing homes are being drawn up to better prevent infection or contain an outbreak.
Implementation of the strategy
According to the Federal Office, the majority of the measures mentioned in the strategy have already proven their worth over the past two years. That is why they are to be continued.
The measures would be implemented jointly by the federal government, cantons, GP practices, retirement and nursing homes, hospitals and other healthcare stakeholders in accordance with their respective responsibilities.
New scientific findings or significant changes in the epidemiological situation will be taken into account on an ongoing basis in the implementation of the "Covid-19+ endemic strategy", as the statement concludes.
