Flu season: get protection now

Every year, as the winter months begin, the flu virus begins to spread. The cold weather weakens our immune system and makes the virus's job much easier. Flu is an infectious illness of the respiratory tract which is caused by the flu virus. The virus is transmitted in tiny airborne droplets which are produced when we sneeze, cough or speak and are then breathed in by others. The virus can also be transmitted indirectly when we touch surfaces (e.g. door handles) which have been previously touched by an infected individual.

Often confused with the common cold

The typical symptoms of a flu infection are the sudden onset of a high temperature (over 38°C) accompanied by shivering, a runny nose, coughing, a sore throat, headache, dizziness, and aches and pains. A flu infection differs from a cold in that it starts very rapidly and has more severe symptoms.

How to protect yourself and those around you

The most effective method is annual vaccination. Washing your hands regularly will also help. You can protect those around from infection by holding a handkerchief in front of your mouth and nose whenever you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a handkerchief, you can always bend your arm at the elbow and cough into the bend.

When a vaccination makes sense

Flu can lead to serious complications for some risk groups (e.g. babies, pregnant women, people over 65 and individuals with chronic illnesses) and should never be underestimated. Doctors advise those affected to protect themselves against infection by having a flu vaccination in good time.

Corona and flu: Is double immunisation possible on the same day?

In the video, santé24 chief physician Silke Schmitt Oggier explains at what intervals the vaccinations against Corona and influenza make sense. (Video in German)

National Flu Vaccination Day on 25 November 2022