Germany health authorities recommend influenza and Covid-19 vaccinations

As temperatures drop and the autumn season begins, health authorities in Germany are emphasizing the importance of vaccinations against influenza and Covid-19 to mitigate the rise in respiratory infections.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (Stiko) has updated its recommendations. For seasonal influenza, annual vaccination is recommended for individuals aged 60 and older, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, residents of care facilities, and healthcare workers.

Regarding Covid-19, the general recommendation for building basic immunity in the adult population has been removed. Instead, annual vaccination is specifically recommended for individuals aged 75 and older, people with certain underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of severe illness, and residents of care facilities.

Historically, influenza cases in Germany have seen significant fluctuations, with the National Vaccination Steering Unit (NaLI) reporting approximately 300,000 laboratory-confirmed cases annually. Recent seasons have shown varying levels of intensity, including a notable wave in the 2022/23 season.