The coronavirus incidence rate in Germany continues to decline. However, some health experts are sounding the alarm about the danger posed by the Delta variant, and calling for people to exercise caution on their holidays. 

455 new cases of coronavirus in Germany

Health authorities in Germany reported 455 new cases of coronavirus to the Robert Koch Institute in the 24 hours to Tuesday morning, around 200 fewer than a week ago. The seven-day nationwide incidence rate therefore fell from 8,6 on Monday to 8,0 on Tuesday. A further 77 COVID-related deaths were reported. 

Yesterday, the Robert Koch Institute recorded just 346 new cases, the lowest daily number since August last year. On Monday evening, the RKI gave the seven-day R-value as 0,68, meaning that 100 infected people theoretically go on to infect 68 more people. This is a key indicator that the pandemic is currently receding. 

Avoid travel to Delta variant areas, health expert warns

However, even with incidence rates continuing to drop nationwide, the German Medical Association is concerned that the upcoming holidays could jeopardise the progress made. The association of doctors is therefore urging caution and advising against travelling to regions where the contagious Delta variant is spreading. 

“Travel to regions that are particularly affected by the Delta variant should be avoided,” said Klaus Reinhardt, President of the Association, to the Funke media group. While acknowledging that holidays were important to enable people to get away from the stresses of the past few months, he said that it was also necessary “to adhere to the hygiene rules in the holiday resort.”