Influenza cases are rising this flu season, with the Robert Koch Institute confirming the start of the flu wave affecting all age groups. The flu season lasts from October to May, peaking in January due to colder weather. Vaccination is recommended, particularly for vulnerable populations, although effectiveness can vary. Current vaccination rates in Germany are below the World Health Organization’s goals. Preventative measures, such as hygiene and distancing, are also advised to reduce infection risk.
The Rise of Influenza Cases
As the flu season unfolds, many individuals are experiencing illness, and the presence of influenza viruses is steadily increasing. The Robert Koch Institute has officially declared the commencement of this year’s flu wave, impacting individuals across all age demographics.
The flu season typically kicks off in October and can persist until May, during which a variety of influenza viruses circulate widely. Infection can lead to what is known as ‘real flu,’ characterized by sudden fever, cough, sore throat, and other common cold symptoms.
Understanding the Timing of the Flu Wave
While the flu wave is often marked by its peak in January, cold weather conditions play a significant role in facilitating infections. The stability of flu viruses increases in cooler temperatures, while human mucous membranes may become more vulnerable. Additionally, people tend to congregate indoors, reducing ventilation and increasing chances of transmission.
The Robert Koch Institute monitors the onset of the flu wave by analyzing samples from patients exhibiting cold symptoms at select medical facilities. The flu wave is deemed to commence when influenza viruses are detected in one out of every five samples tested.
Recent reports indicate that approximately 11,070 laboratory-confirmed cases have been documented, with the RKI tracing the start of the flu wave back to the week of December 30. The report highlights that influenza cases are being recorded across all age groups, confirming that the flu wave is officially underway, and the likelihood of exposure to these viruses will increase in the weeks and months ahead.
Vaccination and Protection Strategies
Despite the rising numbers, experts cannot predict the severity of the current flu wave. There can be variations in flu waves, with some being more intense than others. In certain years, a second flu vaccination has been administered in early spring, emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated during the flu season, ideally between mid-October and December, as it takes up to two weeks for the body to develop full immunity.
The Standing Committee on Vaccination recommends annual flu vaccinations for individuals over 60 years, pregnant women from the 14th week, and those with chronic health conditions or residing in nursing facilities. The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary, particularly among older adults, whose immune systems may not respond as robustly to vaccinations.
The rapid mutation of influenza viruses complicates vaccine development, as health authorities must select which strains to include in vaccines several months in advance. While some individuals may feel hesitant about vaccinations, especially in light of various health challenges, it remains crucial for at-risk populations.
When the viruses undergo significant changes, the effectiveness of the vaccine may diminish. For instance, during the 2014/2015 flu season, the vaccine’s effectiveness plummeted to below 20 percent. Currently, it is too early to determine how well this year’s vaccine aligns with the circulating virus strains, although there are no early indications of reduced effectiveness.
In typical years, vaccine efficacy can reach up to 60 percent, which, while not optimal, is still the best defense against influenza available. Given the high incidence of flu-related illnesses annually, even moderate effectiveness can prevent numerous cases.
Furthermore, flu vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, which is especially vital for individuals with preexisting conditions or older adults. The previous flu season saw over 1,100 fatalities, while the 2017/18 season recorded more than 25,000 deaths due to influenza.
Unfortunately, the vaccination rate against influenza in Germany remains below optimal levels. The World Health Organization advocates for a 75 percent vaccination rate among those over 65, yet only around 43 percent of older adults were vaccinated in 2022, with higher rates observed in eastern states compared to the west.
In addition to vaccination, maintaining distance from individuals exhibiting illness, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing masks in public can help mitigate the risk of infection. These measures also provide protection against COVID-19, RSV, and other viruses that are circulating alongside influenza this season.