Autumn and winter, high season of infectional diseases of the airways: fate or avoidable?
M. Spielmanns1, 2, C. Brülisauer4, C. Fourlakis3
1 Valens Klinik Wald und Bad Ragaz, Valens, Schweiz, 2 Universität Witten-Herdecke, 3 Valens Klinik Wald, Valens, Schweiz, 4 Valens Infektionsprävention, Valens, Schweiz
DOI 10.5414/ATX02927
Abstrakt
Infection prevention in rehabilitation clinics is a recurring issue, particularly during autumn and winter. In addition to vaccinations (influenza, COVID-19, pertussis), a balanced diet (dietary fibre, adequate energy and protein intake) should be considered a key measure, as it supports the immune system. Vitamin and micronutrient supplementation may be beneficial in cases of deficiency. Regular physical activity and sufficient sleep strengthen immune defences. Professional behaviour when symptoms occur, mask requirements depending on the situation, and strict hygiene practices protect both staff and patients. Rehabilitation-specific factors (group therapies, aerosol generation, ventilated spaces) require regular shock ventilation, reduced group sizes, indoor air management, and multimodal prevention strategies. Vaccinations should be easily accessible. By contrast, routine antiviral or antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended. The implementation of effective infection prevention requires interprofessional collaboration, training, clear instructions, and feedback. To summarize: Respiratory infections cannot be completely prevented; however, their frequency and severity can be significantly reduced through combined, setting-specific measures. In this rehabilitation setting, preventive measures for respiratory infections are examined, especially in autumn and winter.
Autoreninformation
Autoren
Abteilungen
- 1 Valens Klinik Wald und Bad Ragaz, Valens, Schweiz,
- 2 Universität Witten-Herdecke,
- 3 Valens Klinik Wald, Valens, Schweiz,
- 4 Valens Infektionsprävention, Valens, Schweiz
Adresse
Prof. Dr. med. Marc Spielmanns
Rehaklinik Wald
Faltigbergstrasse 7
8636 Wald, Schweiz
Email:
[email protected]
Citation
M. Spielmanns, C. Brülisauer und C. Fourlakis.Herbst und Winter, Hauptsaison für Atemwegsinfektionen: Schicksal oder vermeidbar?. 2026; 52: 57-64. doi: 10.5414/ATX02927.