Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): update for anesthesiologists and intensivists March 2020

The current outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has reached Germany. The majority of people infected present with mild disease, but there are severe cases that need intensive care. Unlike other acute infectious diseases progressing to sepsis, the severe courses of COVID19 seemingly show prolonged progression from onset of first symptoms to life-threatening deterioration of (primarily) lung function. Diagnosis relies on PCR using specimens from the respiratory tract. Severe ARDS reflects the hallmark of a critical course of the disease. Preventing nosocomial infections (primarily by correct use of personal protective equipment) and maintenance of hospitals' operational capability are of utmost importance. Departments of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and emergency medicine will envisage major challenges.

Automated summary

The current outbreak of COVID-19 in Germany has both mild cases and severe cases that require intensive care. Unlike other infectious diseases, severe cases of COVID-19 show a prolonged progression from first symptoms to life-threatening deterioration of lung function. It is crucial to prevent nosocomial infections and maintain hospitals' operational capability, with departments of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care, and emergency medicine facing major challenges.