Health experts discuss flu vaccination and infection prevention in Germany

Medical professionals are highlighting the importance of flu vaccinations for pregnant women and strategies to manage seasonal infections. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) and the “Project: Flu Protection” initiative note that pregnant women face a higher risk of severe complications, such as pneumonia, due to physiological changes in the immune and respiratory systems.

Despite recommendations from the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO), data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) indicates that only about one-quarter of pregnant women were vaccinated during the 2024/2025 season. Experts clarify that vaccination does not increase the risk of premature births or C-sections and provides newborn protection during the first months of life.

Additionally, pediatric medical advice focuses on managing the high frequency of respiratory infections in families with young children. Children in daycare settings can experience up to 14 infections annually, which often impacts the entire household.