The number of corona infections increases again with falling temperatures. But Covid-19 is not the only virus worrying experts this autumn and winter. The flu epidemic could also be particularly serious this year. Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) therefore appealed on Twitter to be vaccinated against the flu.
But for whom is the flu vaccination actually recommended, what needs to be considered and how effective is the vaccination against influenza anyway? We answer the most important questions for you.
Who should get the flu shot now?
Similar to Corona, the following applies: risk patients first. The first people with chronic diseases have already received their flu vaccination. Citizens over the age of 60 should also be vaccinated against influenza.
The Standing Vaccination Commission (StiKo) also recommends the flu vaccination for pregnant women from the fourth month of pregnancy, residents of old people’s and nursing homes and people who have a lot of contact with other people because of their work.
Why is the flu shot so important this year?
The flu epidemic in Australia gives German experts cause for concern. In winter Down Under there was a very sharp and rapid increase in influenza infections, including an increased number of hospitalizations for those affected. In the worst case, doctors speak of a “twindemic” – i.e. a parallel corona and flu wave.
Such a scenario is made possible by the fact that all of our immune systems have been weakened by the hygiene measures of recent years and are therefore not prepared for viral infections. Instead of the usual amount of antibodies, we only have a small number of defenses that protect us against flu and the like.
What should I consider when getting the flu vaccination?
If you want to be vaccinated against the flu, you don’t have to dig into your own pocket. Statutory and private health insurance companies usually take care of the vaccination for all insured persons for whom a vaccination recommendation has been made. Anyone who does not have an acute viral infection with a fever above 38.5 degrees or another illness that speaks against the injection is vaccinated.
In addition to the normal vaccination, which is injected into the upper arm, there is also a live vaccine that is initiated in the form of a nasal spray. This is primarily intended for children and young people. It must not be administered if the young people suffer from an immune deficiency or asthma.
Who do I contact for my flu shot?
In principle, any doctor can administer a flu vaccination. Pharmacies, health authorities and company doctors sometimes also vaccinate. In most cases, it is advisable to consult your own family doctor. The main advantage of this is that they usually also know about any chronic diseases or contraindications to the vaccination and can therefore offer the best vaccination advice.
Can I do the flu and corona vaccination together?
According to the StiKo, there is nothing wrong with getting vaccinated against flu and corona in a timely manner. Since the vaccines work in different ways in the body, the experts believe that the immune system can cope well with the two active ingredients in combination.
How effective is the current flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is adapted to the new mutations every year. This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) agreed on particularly effective protection. The vaccine contains antigens of the variants known from the southern hemisphere circulation for two virus strains of influenza A and the two influenza B lines Austria and Phuket.
There is also an even more effective vaccine against influenza for older and vulnerable people. This is dosed four times as high as the normal one and is intended to protect people who are particularly at risk from a dramatic infection. Overall, the flu shot provides 30 to 40 percent protection against severe flu.
How else can I protect myself against the flu?
Even the flu vaccine does not offer 100 percent protection against infection. Experts therefore continue to advise observing the rules of hygiene and keeping a minimum distance from other people. Regular hand washing and coughing and sneezing into the crook of your arm can also reduce the risk of infection.
Source: Robert Koch Institute, vaccination guide
