Health · Medical Research · 3 days ago
Study finds most post-Oktoberfest illnesses are caused by cold viruses
Many people get sick after Oktoberfest, but the cause has not been fully explained.
Early results from an LMU study suggest common cold viruses cause most cases, not influenza.
Crowds, close contact, poor hygiene and cold nights may help illnesses spread, researchers say.
The full study results are expected next year.
Many people in Munich became ill with the so-called Wiesn flu after Oktoberfest.
A study led by cardiologist Stefan Max Brunner of LMU Klinikum is investigating why so many visitors get sick.
Early results suggest most cases are caused by common cold viruses, while influenza accounts for a smaller share.
Researchers surveyed visitors near the Hackerbrücke and are taking samples from people who become ill.
Brunner suspects crowded spaces, heavy alcohol consumption, poor hygiene and cool autumn nights may contribute.
The full study results are expected to be published next year.
- Who
- Oktoberfest visitors; researchers led by Stefan Max Brunner of LMU Klinikum
- What
- A study is investigating illnesses known as Wiesn flu, with early results pointing mainly to common cold viruses.
- When
- After Oktoberfest; full study results are expected next year.
- Where
- Munich, including the area near Hackerbrücke and the Theresienwiese
- Why
- Researchers are investigating the causes; Brunner suspects several factors, including crowds, alcohol, hygiene and cool autumn nights.
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- Study lead
- Stefan Max Brunner, cardiologist at LMU Klinikum
- Survey location
- Hackerbrücke, near the Theresienwiese
- Early findings
- Most cases appear to be caused by common cold viruses; influenza is responsible for a smaller share.
- Expected publication
- The full study results are expected next year.
What people are saying
Die Wiesn-Grippe ist ja in München und Umgebung ein bekanntes Phänomen
Sources
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