Flu Shot Season: Who Should Get Vaccinated in Germany
Frankfurt – November 02, 2026 -- Germany's Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) urges certain groups to get their annual flu shot between October and mid-December, yet vaccination rates remain low among many of them.
Protection takes 10 to 14 days to build
A common cold, often called a "flu-like infection," has nothing to do with real influenza, which is caused by influenza viruses. The annual vaccination is the most important preventive measure. After the shot, the body needs about 10 to 14 days to build sufficient protection.
In recent years, Germany's flu wave has mostly started after the turn of the year. Getting vaccinated before then is best, but a shot in early January can still be worthwhile. According to the source, vaccination remains useful into spring.