Hamburg: Health experts in the German city of Hamburg have reported an outbreak of Haemophilus influenzae type B, with 16 cases and three deaths recorded so far, according to the Robert Koch Institute for disease control.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the institute said there is no cause for concern for healthy individuals, noting that healthy adults can eliminate the bacteria, while those with weakened immune systems may develop serious illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis, which can be life-threatening within hours.
The institute added that the infection spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, or close contact with the face, and may also be transmitted indirectly through cigarettes, smoking devices, food, or drug paraphernalia.
According to the institute, 27 cases were recorded across Germany from the start of the year until July 20, compared with 16 cases in the same period last year. In 2024, a total of 33 cases and two deaths were reported, compared with 35 cases and four deaths in 2023.