Infectious Diseases in Hamburg

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. They can spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Some infectious diseases are transmitted by insects or other animals. Infectious diseases can also spread through the consumption of contaminated water or food or exposure to organisms in the environment.

The branch of medicine that focuses on infectious diseases is called infectiology, which is a subspecialty of internal medicine. Doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases are called infectious diseases (ID) specialists. While most common infections can be treated by general internists and other specialists, ID specialists are frequently called upon to help diagnose and assist in treating or managing unusual, difficult, or complicated infections. Since many infectious diseases are related to other medical conditions, ID specialists work with doctors in many specialty areas, such as doctors trained in dermatology, immunology, or cardiovascular medicine. 

Some of the most common infectious diseases that ID specialists diagnose, treat, and manage include:

• Bone and joint infections
• Heart valve infections
• Blastomycosis
• Complicated urinary tract infections
• Lyme disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Viral hepatitis
• Rubella, Measles, and Mumps
• Malaria
• Cholera
• Dengue
• Ebola
• Sepsis
• Tuberculosis
• Rheumatic fever
• Travel medicine
• Tick-borne infections
• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• Post-operative infections.

There are numerous procedures that ID specialists and other specialists use to diagnose, prevent, and treat infectious diseases. These include, but are not limited to:

• Laboratory tests, including blood tests, urine tests, stool samples, throat swabs, and a spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
• Imaging scans, such as CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays.
• Biopsies.
• Antibiotic therapies
• Immunizations
• Infection control
• Fecal microbiota (stool) transplant
• Antimicrobial therapy (OPAT)
• Antifungal therapy
• Anti-parasitic therapy.

How Long Should I Stay in Hamburg?

Your length of stay depends on the severity of your infection and which organ is affected by the infection. Some types of infectious diseases may require hospitalization, while others do not. It is generally advisable that you plan to stay in Hamburg for at least 7 to 14 days. Even if you do not need hospitalization, some types of treatment may require several appointments. In addition, you may also need to attend follow-up checkups.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Recovery time after infectious disease can vary, depending on the type and severity of the infection. For some infectious diseases, the healing process can take time and it can take a few months until you can resume your normal activities. Some other types of infectious diseases, however, only need around 2 weeks or even less of recovery time. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to work and resume your normal activities.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your doctor will give you detailed aftercare instruction. It is important to follow every instruction closely. They may also tell you prevention measures to decrease the risk of infection from occurring in the future. These include washing your hands frequently, to get vaccinated, practice safe sex, travel wisely, stay home when ill, prepare food safely, and avoid sharing personal items. 

What's the Success Rate?

Active research in infectious diseases has resulted in new discoveries that help doctors to refine the treatment and management approach to infectious diseases. The success rate of infectious disease treatment has increased significantly in the past several decades. Some types of treatments even have 90% success rates.   

Are there Alternatives?

There are a number of products that have been studied for preventing or shortening the duration of some infections, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, garlic, ginseng, and zinc. However, it is best that you see your general physician, a specialist, or an ID specialist to treat your infection instead of taking alternative medicine.  

Infectious Diseases in and around Hamburg

About Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany. It is a port city and it is also the second-busiest port in Europe. Famous for its parks and canals, this eclectic city is filled with iconic architecture, delicious cuisines, music, and lively nightlife. Hamburg also enjoys an excellent reputation in the field of medical tourism. The hospitals in the city boast highly-trained specialists offering remarkable standards of medical care. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, medical tourists are sure to receive the best care. Numerous hospitals and clinics provide the highest standard of healthcare as well as world-class medical care around the clock. Cutting-edge hospitals, experienced specialists, and advanced techniques in line with the very latest scientific findings are the reason why its healthcare sector is thriving. 

Popular Parts of Hamburg

As a port city, much of the city’s character comes for its port, which is why the harbor tour is very popular. The harbor tour allows visitors to admire the city from a different perspective. Those who love art should visit Hamburger Kunsthalle, which is the city’s premier art gallery offering a wide collection of Germany’s master painters. Any visitor who loves shopping should go to Altona, an elegant neighborhood where visitors can find an array of stylish boutiques, amazing restaurants, and bars. Hamburg is also known as one of the nightlife capitals of Europe. The center of the city’s nightlife is located in St. Pauli, a neighborhood filled with live music venues, dance parties, pubs, and cocktail bars. 

Transport in Hamburg

Hamburg Airport is the international airport in Hamburg, which connects the city with numerous countries in Europe and the Middle East. Public transportation in Hamburg is efficient and convenient. Buses operate around the clock, including a special night bus (Nachtbus) service. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains are integrated, making it easy to get around the city. Visitors who want to get around with the U-Bahn and S-Bahn train can buy an individual ticket or an All-Day ticket, which is reasonably priced. Taxis are easily available and are reliable. 

Visas in Hamburg

Since Germany is part of the Schengen Area, citizens of several countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the US, can visit and stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are required to apply and obtain a visa prior to their arrival. It is recommended to always check the requirements for the visa application before applying.

Weather in Hamburg

Summer, starting from June to August, has an average temperature of 24°C, making it a popular time to visit the city. However, the temperatures can rise to 30°C on some very hot days. Winter can be very cold, with the temperatures dropping below 0°C. The seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September – October) has pleasant weather with warm temperatures.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). 1 EUR converts to approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widespread around the city. Credit cards are widely accepted and tipping is common.
3. Local Language: German is the official language. Most people, particularly in tourist areas, will speak little English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: The largest religion is Christianity and Islam is the second-largest religion. Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism are also freely-practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Some of the most celebrated public holidays are New Year’s Day, Day of German Unity, Reformation Day, and Christmas Day.