Despite the currently more relaxed corona situation, there are already signs that a new wave could come soon. The doctors insist on the needs of young people – and a “bold” vaccination campaign.
Doctor President Klaus Reinhardt calls on the federal and state governments to plan the corona strategy in good time in the fall, with a special focus on children and young people. “Time is of the essence,” said the head of the German Medical Association of the German Press Agency.
“The next prime ministerial conference on June 2nd must set the course for the safe operation of schools and daycare centers.” Children would have endured protective measures like hardly any other population group and made a large solidarity contribution. “We have an obligation to give something back to the children now.”
Consider collateral damage
The effects of the Corona crisis on children and young people are a main topic of the German Doctors’ Day, which begins this Tuesday in Bremen. “Corona infections are almost always very mild in young people,” explained Reinhardt. However, the medical profession pointed out early on the collateral damage of the corona containment measures for children such as social isolation, lack of exercise, educational deficits or violence at home. A large number of studies show a clear increase in psychological problems or the loss of quality of life in young people. “The educational and development opportunities of an entire generation are at stake here.”
At the Doctors’ Day, there should be intensive discussions with experts on how the negative psychosocial consequences of the pandemic for adolescents could be contained. Schools and day-care centers play a crucial role, said Reinhardt. “If you believe the promises made by politicians, everything should be done to prevent renewed widespread closures.” A pandemic master plan announced by Federal Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach (SPD) for the autumn is therefore eagerly awaited. “The children must not be forgotten here again.”
increase vaccination rates
The medical president emphasized that the highest possible vaccination rate is still essential for an effective corona strategy. “We should no longer have yesterday’s debates and lament about the failure of general vaccination.” Everything must now be done to further increase the vaccination rate. Vaccines are the most effective tool to protect against severe corona courses and to return to pre-pandemic normality. That needs to be made clearer to people.
“Previous vaccination campaigns have been half-hearted and uninspired. There is still a lot of room for improvement, »said Reinhardt. “I would like to see a courageous, multimedia campaign from the Federal Center for Health Education that people can discuss in the subway or at the dinner table.” Every vaccination counts, especially with a view to autumn and winter. One could also consider material vaccination incentives that are interesting for different target groups. “In any case, we won’t get any further with conventional campaigns.”
Source: Stern

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