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(09.12.2025) The flu is not a harmless cold, but a serious infectious disease with sometimes serious complications. An annual vaccination not only protects at-risk groups.

"Anyone who can get vaccinated against influenza should do so," emphasizes Prof. Dr. Hartmut Hengel, Medical Director of the Institute for Virology at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg. Influenza is no ordinary cold, but a very serious illness. It can affect the entire body - from the respiratory tract to the circulatory system.

Checklist: What can I do myself?

People over the age of 60, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system, respiratory or heart disease and diabetes are particularly at risk. However, healthy adults can also become seriously ill. In addition to acute lung failure, the flu can cause inflammation of the heart and increase the risk of a stroke. The complications of influenza can affect completely healthy people, often with devastating consequences.

Vaccination protects - even if infection occurs

"Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of infection. If an infection does occur, the course of the disease is usually much less severe," explains Hengel. The summary of the vaccine is adjusted every year. After two to three weeks, the body builds up protection that lasts for several months. The vaccine is administered as a single vaccination. It is generally very well tolerated. "It is best to get vaccinated every year in late fall," advises the expert. The little jab protects you and those around you.

Annual boosters are worthwhile

The long-term effect pays off: "Regular boosters provide better long-term protection than irregular or one-off vaccinations," emphasizes Hengel. Even if you haven't had a flu vaccination yet, you can start at any time - ideally in the fall before the flu epidemic begins. "But it's never too late to start."

Washing your hands is a simple and effective preventative measure

In addition to vaccination, thorough hand washing helps to prevent transmission. During the cold season, it is also worth avoiding shaking hands. The virus spreads via droplets when coughing and sneezing as well as via hands and mucous membranes.

Checklist: What can I do myself?

• Get vaccinated annually (ideally in November)
• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keep your distance if someone around you is ill
• Avoid shaking hands, especially in winter
• Watch out for warning signs: Fever, feeling very ill, sudden onset of symptoms
• If in doubt, seek professional advice (especially for children, pregnant women, elderly people and people with previous illnesses)

It is important to seek medical help for these symptoms:

• high fever
• Feeling very ill
• earache
• shortness of breath
• existing pre-existing conditions
• illness during pregnancy
• severely impaired or very young children

The following applies to healthy adults: bed rest, plenty to drink and physical rest are usually sufficient in the beginning.

Summary

Influenza is a serious illness - and vaccination offers effective, safe protection. Not only against infections, but also for the heart. If you get immunized every year, you not only protect yourself, but also your family, friends and people at higher risk.

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