Overview
- The Robert Koch Institute reports 10,866 lab‑confirmed cases in the week to December 14, nearly double the prior week, with about 7.1 million acute respiratory illnesses estimated overall.
- A newly observed H3N2 subclade K is cited by researchers as the likely driver of the early wave due to partial escape from existing antibodies.
- The Paul-Ehrlich-Institut says about 18.8 million vaccine doses have been released and no nationwide shortage is confirmed, though manufacturers report stock fully placed on the market and local shortfalls can arise.
- Regional snapshots show adequate supplies in Mecklenburg‑Vorpommern, high demand creating temporary gaps in Schleswig‑Holstein, and Bavaria cautioning that localized constraints are possible.
- Health authorities urge vaccination now, noting protection builds in 10–14 days, and recommend ventilation, masking and hygiene; Chemnitz held a special clinic after an early spike in cases.