The Wiesn is a crowded place: many hands reach for beer mugs, beer tables or handles. Regular hand washing is therefore the most effective protection. A small disinfectant spray for on the go is also practical. If you want to be on the safe side, you can briefly wipe the rim of the beer mug before clinking glasses. I recommend using sanitary wipes or alcohol-soaked wipes for cleaning glasses.

It is often warm in the afternoon, but temperatures drop significantly in the evening in September and October. If you are only out and about in a dirndl or lederhosen, you run the risk of your skin and mucous membranes cooling down and being less well supplied with blood - this reduces your resistance to viruses and makes your body more susceptible to the pathogens that are already circulating. It is therefore essential to take a jacket or scarf with you to avoid shivering through the night.

Fresh air in a beer garden is healthier than stuffy air in a marquee. If you have the choice, it's better to sit outside - if the weather cooperates. The risk of infection is lower there because aerosols dissipate more quickly. In tents, on the other hand, close seating and loud conversations at close range favor transmission. If you are partying in a tent, you should avoid being in close proximity as far as possible. However, infection with respiratory viruses or bacteria can only be prevented if you keep your distance - or don't go to the Oktoberfest at all.

Not only the classic "Wiesn flu", but also corona is playing a role this year. We are already seeing an increased number of cases in our outpatient clinic and expect that there will be more infections in the days and weeks after the Oktoberfest. These spread according to the snowball system: people who were not at the Oktoberfest will also be affected. It is therefore worth having rapid coronavirus tests and an FFP2 mask at home in advance. Anyone who notices symptoms similar to illness after a visit to the Oktoberfest should be tested and, if in doubt, wear a face mask - this way you not only protect yourself, but also your family, friends and colleagues.

A strong immune system starts even before the Oktoberfest. A healthy and varied diet, sufficient sleep and plenty of fluids (teas are best for this, as well as water) help the body to arm itself against viruses. Vitamin C can provide additional support, but special boosters or medication are of no benefit. If you go to the Oktoberfest in good shape, it is easier to cope with infections. If you are already ill, it is better to stay at home.

Be careful when it comes to cuddling (or more), especially with casual acquaintances. Even if your partner looks healthy, sexually transmitted infections are usually not visible from the outside. During the Oktoberfest period, cases of sexually transmitted diseases increase. Condoms protect - but not against all diseases. It is therefore important to handle intimacy responsibly.