Flu vaccination

A flu vaccination protects up to 90% of those who are vaccinated. This is because it prevents the outbreak of flu or lessens its impact. Another benefit is that the more people who are vaccinated, the greater the resistance to the transmission of the flu.

What are the arguments in favour of the flu vaccination?

Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing a flu infection. A true flu infection weakens the immune system. This makes it easier for other pathogens to take hold. Often the result is pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Individuals with other illnesses and older people are especially prone to flu complications. By getting vaccinated you also protect others around you who cannot be vaccinated.

Who should get vaccinated?

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination for the following people:

• Individuals 60 years of age and older
• Individuals with a chronic illness
• Pregnant women 
• Employees who face a higher risk of infection because of their job, such as individuals who work on public transport or in healthcare facilities

The reason for this recommendation is that age, chronic illness and pregnancy lead to weakened immune systems – and in this instance, the flu can be life-threatening.

For whom is vaccination not suitable?

Individuals with acute illnesses involving fever or individuals with a proven severe egg allergy should not be vaccinated.

Does the flu vaccination have side effects?

The vaccination is generally well tolerated. Severe reactions have not been observed in studies. Nevertheless you may experience local symptoms of intolerance, such as redness, swelling and pain. Other symptoms that may occur but are rare include a slight fever, fatigue, headache and nausea. These symptoms usually subside within one to two days. If they do not subside, please visit your GP. Allergic reactions were found to occur in less than one in 10,000 vaccination cases. They are extremely rare.  

How to get a flu vaccination:

You get a flu vaccination from your GP. Your GP should have the flu vaccine in their surgery. 

Individuals 60 years of age and older, those with a chronic illness and pregnant women receive the vaccination as a service covered by their health insurance. In this case, you just have to present your SBK health care card to the surgery. 

If you are younger than 60 years old and do not have an underlying illness, your doctor can issue you a private invoice. Doctors generally keep the flu vaccine on hand in their surgeries so you don’t have to make an extra trip to the pharmacy. Send the prescription and private invoice to SBK, 80227 Munich, Germany. You will then be reimbursed the costs of vaccination. A vaccination consultation, such as for your next holiday abroad, is a private service that you have to pay for yourself, however. If you have more questions about covering costs, it is best to speak with your personal consultant before getting vaccinated.