Schleswig-Holstein Urges Residents to Get Influenza Vaccinations This Autumn

The government of Schleswig-Holstein has initiated a public health campaign urging residents to receive their influenza vaccinations ahead of the autumn season. Health Minister Kerstin von der Decken (CDU) emphasized the importance of vaccinations as one of the simplest and most effective measures to protect public health, especially vulnerable groups such as infants under six months who cannot be vaccinated.

According to the Ständige Impfkommission (Stiko), vaccinations are recommended for people aged 60 and older, pregnant women, nursing home residents, healthcare personnel, and those in frequent contact with animals like pigs, poultry, wild birds, or seals. Since the influenza virus changes frequently, a new vaccine is formulated each year, requiring annual administration. Immunity typically develops about two weeks after vaccination.

Vaccinations are readily available through general practitioners, pediatricians, health offices, and pharmacies across Schleswig-Holstein. The 2023/24 flu season saw a vaccination rate of 47.4% among adults over 60 in the state, significantly higher than the national average of 38.2%, highlighting relative success in local outreach efforts.

Minister von der Decken reinforced that autumn is the ideal time for vaccination, helping to curb the spread of influenza and protect at-risk populations as the virus season approaches.