Pathogen
Influenza A and B viruses, annually varying strains.
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Transmission
Droplets, aerosol, hand-smear infection.
Clinical picture
Sudden onset with high fever, body aches, dry cough. Seniors and patients at risk: pneumonia, increased risk of heart attack.
Vaccine protection
Inactivated vaccine, annually adapted to current strains. High-dose vaccine (Efluelda) preferred from age 60.
Who should be vaccinated?
From age 60, pregnant women, chronically ill (asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease), healthcare workers — annually in autumn.
Vaccination schedule (STIKO)
- Jährliche Impfung (ab 60 J.)
Booster: Jährlich im Herbst (Okt–Nov). Ab 60 J. Hochdosis-Impfstoff. Risikopatienten/Schwangere: jährlich, unabhängig vom Alter.
Further information on Influenza (flu): RKI vaccines A–Z.
